Individual Beliefs Vs. Societal Beliefs

        Children are oblivious to their surroundings and thus, can freely express who they are. However, as these children grow up, societal pressures and norms tend to influence their individuality. The extent to which people should establish their individuality versus appease societal expectations becomes a controversial issue. As a result, there is a spectrum of perspectives that have been created. The extremists on both sides of this spectrum choose to either fully direct their attention to proclaiming their individuality or satisfying society, respectively. In contrast, the individuals or groups that fall in the middle of these poles understand how crucial it is to incorporate their own beliefs and society’s beliefs into their value system. Undeniably, each individual is entitled to find his own level of comfort within this spectrum. Nevertheless, as demonstrated by Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice and various cultures, it is more sensible to live in moderation than to be a lone island or a universal pleaser.