Philosophy Stack Exchange is a question and answer site for those interested in the study of the fundamental nature of knowledge, reality, and existence. It only takes a minute to sign up.
Sign up to join this community
Is there a dichotomy between individuality and "humans are social animals"?
What kind of theory is there available about this topic?
By dichotomy I mean "opposition". I.e. are there contradictions between the two things (individuality and social animal).
yes there is a dichotomy. But a dichotomy is not a contradiction. My cat is a unique individual; she is also a member of a species. Being a member of that species is precisely what makes her a cat. But she remains a unique individual. Similarly if prosociality is what makes us human, that does not mean we are not unique individuals.
No, there is not a dichotomy between the two.
While there may be portions of each attribute which are at odds, the general notion of 'individuality' may (and does) co-exist with the need for social interaction.
To abuse a metaphor, let us pretend pursing activities which promote individualism is 'chocolate', and pursuing social activities is 'pizza'.
While some people greatly prefer one or the other, generally people like both to some degree. Does desiring pizza preclude a person from also enjoying chocolate as well? Do people sometimes 'overindulge' on chocolate, and so want something more substantial for their next meal?
Does enjoying late night clubbing with friends preclude a person from desiring some solo meditation the next morning? Does spending two years in voluntary isolation mean that one doesn't wish to engage in social activities?
