You are an individual. You have unique needs, beliefs, desires, and ambitions.
You are part of a collective. Probably many collectives. These communities have unique needs, values, and shared goals.
Tension. Because, of course, the individual needs sometimes conflict with the collective needs. So which should win in any given situation?
The collective often faces the inertia of tradition, the unwillingness or inability to change quickly. The collective is also subject to the persuasion of the loudest voices. Conversely, the individual can be plagued by narcissism, an excessive preoccupation with personal needs and ambitions, often at the expense of others.
The surprising answer may be that neither should win outright; instead, the tension itself should be embraced. This dynamic interplay between individual and collective is not a bug in the system, but potentially its greatest feature. The push-pull relationship can actually be a catalyst for innovation, societal progress, and personal growth.
Embracing the tension rather than resolving it may just be the key to a more vibrant, resilient society and happier, more fulfilled individuals.
