Individuality or Individualism…?
Individuality and individualism are often used interchangeably, but we want to talk about how and why they are different, and how that is reflected through Black women in society.
Though they share the same root word, individuality refers to the state of being an individual, whilst individualism is a belief system that encourages self-reliance.
Individualism can encourage personal autonomy and freedom, however, it can also lead to detachment from community. Under capitalism, many people fall victim to hyper-individualism, which prioritises a false sense of ego, focuses heavily on material gain, and encourages a "me, me, me" mindset. This may be a sign of independence when things are going well, but can ultimately hinder someone when they are struggling, often manifesting as being in survival mode, being burnt out, or being in isolation.
On the other hand, individuality prioritises a true sense of Self, often focusing on innate gifts whilst attracting people with similar traits and values. Honouring individuality means respecting your Self and others, acknowledging that we are all different yet still want to feel safe, loved, and supported whilst being our authentic Selves.
It speaks to being a unique person with your own tastes, personality, wants, and needs. Individuality can overlap with individualist values, such as ownership of land or personal items, but the difference is that it is rooted more in equity and fairness than in competition or status.
As Black women, we may share many traits and experiences that allow us to relate to one another, but we are not all the same; we are individuals. Put more simply, “Black women are not a monolith” — a phrase that has been used time and time again in Black feminist spaces to challenge the dehumanising trope that Black women all act, want, and feel the same way.
In a capitalist society, it is easy for anyone to lean into individualism, but especially for Black women, as people often project being ‘strong and independent’ onto us. This ties in with the idea that “Black women are the same” because it is easier for society to categorise us in this way rather than acknowledge our humanity and individuality, and the ways that these have been compromised.
Nevertheless, we can be both independent and interdependent, and we often are. Many Black women have a nuanced understanding of community, humanity, expression, and individuality, but hyper-individualism can wear away at those values.
It drives people to only care about their Selves, yet none of us exist in isolation. If we all only cared about our Selves, society would be in total collapse.
It also encourages accumulating as much wealth or material things as possible, as symbols of status or success, but do status or success really mean anything without human connection?
The harmony lies in embracing our individuality, remaining connected to community, and not falling victim to hyper-individualism. Prioritising individuality over individualism doesn’t say ‘you can’t have your own things’; it says ‘we should all be able to have the things that we want and need, be who we are, and be respected equally’. We thrive most as humans when we respect each other, and help where we can.
This doesn’t require giving up your individuality; it simply requires humanising your Self and other people.
FOUR things to think about:
Do I tend to prioritise individuality or individualism? Is this helping or hindering me?
Have I ever mistaken hyper-independence for freedom?
How does honouring my individuality allow me to stay connected to my community/communities?
What parts of myself feel most authentic when I am not performing for status, validation, or survival?
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FOUR + FOUR is a creative research and media platform challenging social norms through the expressions + experiences of Black Women. Follow us on IG: fourplusfour.world … if you want.
