Individualism, capitalism, and pride in personal freedom are deemed to be the distinctive and exclusive possessions of Americans. However, when the world is suffering from an atrocious pandemic of Covid-19, does this show of individualism is more important than adhering to the social norms and following public health advisory?
COVID-19’s disastrous effects have shaken all the economies around the globe but people in most of the cities of the United States were found celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in restaurants and bars this weekend. Incessant federal recommendations and warnings from public health officials to avoid social gatherings and exercising self-isolation has not been enough to convince them.
Tiffany Joseph, an associate professor of Sociology and International Affairs at Northeastern University has associated this with the rugged individualism ingrained in the U.S. culture. Whether we talk of California Gold Rush, policies of Republican Party or Herbert Hoover’s book, all demonstrate this “culture of individualism”. They believe in what they can do for themselves rather than how their actions can impact other’s life. She also highlights how youth is not taking this seriously due to the mere information that children and young adults are at lower risk for serious health consequences when afflicted with COVID-19.
Self-isolation has been designated as an effective measure to protect those around you from contracting COVID-19. Although individualism has been associated with the success of the US economy it can have adverse effects too. So, our actions should be prudent and modified as per situational variables.
During this stressful time, taking simple, common-sense steps can make a great difference. If we refrain ourselves from meeting our loved ones today, we will get a chance to enjoy a more cherishable moment tomorrow. So, don’t panic, take precautions, avoid gatherings, and stay safe because a better tomorrow is always there to make all the miserable sufferings pass into oblivion.
Kriti Vishwakarma