Philosophy Nr.2 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Philosophy Nr.2 - Essay Example Therefore, it is essential to have social discipline in any society. Individualism is the basic principle on which the societies of the present age are founded. Every person wishes to procure, whatever he feels that he is eligible to obtain. In this manner, the individualist theory of justice has been transformed into a crucial collective theory of the present age (Aron 26). In instances, wherein individual distinction prevails in society; the principle of collective consciousness, which is controlled by mechanical solidarity, remains in existence. Values, sentiments and morals should be the same for all the people. In cases, where these common principles are impaired, society will be exposed to the danger of disintegration (Aron 26). Individualism in Europe chiefly emerged on the basis of the thoughts of John Stuart Mill and Friedrich Nietzsche. John Stuart Mill’s renowned essay On Liberty, declared that individuals should exercise sovereignty over their mind and body. Nevertheless, he was convinced that his ideology did not subscribe to the selfish ideas, propounded by Adam Smith. He believed that individuals should have the freedom to investigate moral, religious, and feminist ideas (Individualism). As such, Mill focused on personal freedom, which he considered indispensable, for achieving the greatest good of the greatest numbers. According to Mill, individual dignity depends on personal freedom (Individualism). Ultimately, this would lead to the exploration of the unconventional ideas. The individual was viewed by Plato and Aristotle, as a social and political being. In the Republic, Plato contended the state was responsible for molding the individual psyche, via its educative and socializing functions. He also promoted the views of Socrates, who stated that dialogue between the people, led to the formation of a knowledge base and principles of virtue and morality among them. (Self and