Individuality vs. Individualism

Individuality is a gift of God's design. It showcases the diversity of His infinite creativity and celebrates the multifaceted ways He expresses Himself. Our individual uniqueness glorifies God and fosters a sense of awe and appreciation of Him for those attuned to His presence. When we express the idea God had in mind as He formed us in the womb, it fulfills His original intent. Therefore, true individuality has much broader implications than merely adhering the adage to “express yourself”. There is an eternal purpose attached to our being authentic.

Individual-ism, on the other hand, is rooted in hurt or pride and damages the expression of our true person. When we are hurt, rejected or misunderstood, the tendency is to withdraw. We move from self-expression to self-protection. We switch from looking outward to looking inward. Over time and in extremes, a lifestyle of this form of individualism numbs a person from experiencing empathy and compassion. It blocks rationale and leads to destructive behavior.

In much the same way, when we are surrounded only by admirers, doters and “yes men”, another form of individualism occurs. The people around us become servants of our egos and we are tempted to believe we are at the center of our own little universe. In a subtle twist of irony, we give the outward appearance of autonomy, but underneath, we are bound. Far from receiving the simple encouragement and honor we all need, we instead become propped up by affirmations and grow dependent upon the opinions of our yes men. This form of individualism isolates a person from others in a much different manner. In this state, we may not be isolated in outward loneliness, but in proximity of heart. There is no equal grounding from which we may relate to others. Relationships are utilitarian, co-dependent and hierarchical. 

The fullness of our personalities are designed to be expressed in relationship. When our way of life leaves us isolated and alone, we suffer from the lack of social interaction.* In fact, it was Adam’s aloneness which God sites as the first negative in scripture.  Individualism disconnects us from participating within the larger community and stifles growth and broader vision. Proverbs 18:1 tells us “He who separates himself seeks his own desire, He quarrels against all sound wisdom.” Individualism in either form ultimately serves its own ends and loses sight of consideration for others.

Concerning the artist: The artist’s ability to express reality in new and unexplored terms puts her in a unique position regarding individuality and individualism. By design, the artist is gifted with a vibrant self-expression. Creative work requires a measure of boldness and vulnerability which leaves the artist susceptible to criticism and judgment. Because of this, the artist also becomes more easily tempted to fall into the self-protective individualism we mentioned above. The same is true when facing the opposite response. When an artist or her work is hailed as innovative and groundbreaking, the same susceptibility, left unchecked, flings her into an egocentric worldview. It is a double-edged sword. Those gifted with an exuberant individuality are also those who face the temptations of individualism.

Learning to stand in a holy indifference (not to be confused with false modesty) to both praise and criticism frees us to express the beauty of our God-designed individuality, regardless of how a work is received. Genuine individuality is selfless and natural. It glorifies God and draws people together in celebration. Individualism is self-centered and self-aware. It distorts God’s glory and separates friends.

*It is important to distinguish between isolation and solitude. Isolation, as we described above, is self-focused and harmful. It depletes the individual of nourishment we give and receive from others both like and unlike ourselves. Solitude, however, is a fruitful womb, which empowers our relationships to flourish.