I've been actively resisting the recent media fascination with China; we all too often attempt to reduce the culture and country into simplistic, western generalizations. We do not understand, therefore we judge. But I haven't been able to shake this article out of my mind since I first read it. We, indeed, are an individualistic culture; the very definition of capitalism demands such a mentality. I do wonder how globalization will impact our nation's spirit and economy. We may be at a disadvantage to societies with a more collectivist nature; if my work is for something greater than simply my own profit than perhaps my own selfish needs are less important than the end result.
Personally, however, the more attention I've given to myself and my own self improvement has yielded more productivity and a greater spirit of generosity. Therapy may seem indulgent in a collectivist society, yet I can attest to an hour a week of 'indulgent therapeutic time' produces ten fold my ability to relate on a professional and personal level. Such results are antithetical to a person whom values the national reputation over her own 7-year-old need to feel like she is (good, pretty, talented) ENOUGH.**
Perhaps as we dig our way deeper into the 21st century, we will find a way to negotiate our individualist impulses with the need for collectivist action. Perhaps we will divide into greater extremes; political parties centered around more collectivism vs. those that demand individualism. Perhaps we are headed for a world in which our individualism will have to be redefined through a powerful collectivist lens. Perhaps I should talk to my therapist about this...
**The girl behind the curtain, so to speak, is extraordinarily cute by western standards.
No comments:
Post a Comment