While the push for individuality is prevalent and seen in diverse media throughout daily life, it is juxtaposed with the fundamental refusal of self-reflection within the U.S. culture. Briefly, this refusal is demonstrated by the constant blame of "others", denial of wrongdoing by "me" (whoever is speaking), and lack of transparency in discourse or dialogue. This dynamic becomes an inauthentic parade to display for others rather than actually express ones' individuality. Without the ability to find and accept who one is, the result is the suppression of self and taking on of roles. This can be seen in the way people talk about each other, as family, friends, coworkers, etc. Labels like "my rock", the "fun friend", "Blanche to my Dorothy" (substitute your own pop-culture reference), or the "go-to guy" are prevalent. One may seek to 'live up to' a reputation, or to use one of
the above labels in order to be unique or, more precisely, to have value. Believing one only has value as an individual
because of being
witnessed and judged as being an individual does not indicate a healthy
self-image.
A part of the pursuit of 'The Good Life' is the futile flight from conformity.
Individuality can be an internalized form of domination when people are
trapped by thinking that their value only has to do with money.
The fear of being seen as the same as everyone else (especially potent
in an individualistic society) means that wealth is the only way to be
oneself since the wealthy are the ones seen as expressing individual
flair (and deserving of the label 'iconoclast'). The Lego Movie shows us the danger of conforming, and how forgettable Emmet is before becoming 'The Special'. Even Wyldstyle disdains
him openly for not being a Master Builder. The initial message is that
anyone who has no discernible outward or visible difference is nothing.
It is only at the end of the movie that we find the concept that every
individual has something to offer as themselves. This mirrors the reality that people can feel and see, where social media and popular culture are filled with sensational, odd individuals and stolid, sensible people are dismissed.
The question of self can also be found when I blend in to various groups and don't seem to
have a solid "me"-sometimes people will say they are a 'chameleon'. This is actually an example of humanity, universality, and
commonality amongst all of us. It is not a problem or suspicious to be
able to relate, since we are all more alike than we are irretrievably
different. It also relates to the concept of code-switching, an important ability to act appropriately in different situations.
Finally, what would it mean to have an identity? If I do accept myself, does anyone else? Is the essence of who I am only valid without influence from anyone else or despite those around me? We are a social species, and depend on the social environment we swim through everyday to offer cues as to "how we are". What this means is that prejudice is learned through our surroundings, just as oppression is internalized. Contrarily, celebration of differences and equity for all can be learned through exposure to others. My ability to find and celebrate myself is a prerequisite for doing the same for others, so I hope we can make this process less daunting with time.
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