Individualism and collectivism in the modern era: I can live independently, but what about my neighbors?

"I can pay my bills. I can live alone. But we need to work on this as a society, I believe, to try to be more and to look outside, right? Does my neighbor need help? Do my friends from work need help?" --- (A reflection clip from @Diversityireland's YouTube Shorts)

This short video may have a simple statement, but it contains a lot of meaning. In today's world, these words are a subtle satire for people who constantly live independently--- Living in the 21st century, we are often taught that we should always be able to stand alone, make our own decisions, and pursue our own goals without thinking about the support of others. Life is always colored by the encouragement to live independently, which may be a positive thing for some people who respond that by living independently, we will form a tough and confident person in our abilities. Hofstede's cultural dimension theory of individualism and collectivism explains how an individual is always concerned with himself without regard for others. In the United States, Canada, Australia, and Sweden, children are encouraged to support themselves from their early teens. This is seen as a sign of success and maturity. However, high individualism can also lead to problems such as loneliness, social isolation, and low empathy for others. However, collectivism is closely associated with social groups in countries like Indonesia, Japan, and China.

In this video, the speaker begins by expressing strong individualistic values, saying things like "I can do everything on my own," "I can pay my bills," and "I can live alone." These statements reflect ideas common in many cultures from the West, where independence and confidence are highly valued. Many people share personal achievements, journeys, goals, and upgrades that demonstrate an individual identity on social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.
However, the message in the video changes when the speaker encourages one to think about others, such as "Does my neighbor need help?" or "Maybe she's struggling today." This points to collectivist values that dwell on helping others, communities, and society and also being aware of the needs of others. These values are seen in Eastern cultures, where group support and harmony are more important than self-interest.

This combination of ideas reflects how social media combines both cultures. Many people post their successes (individualism) and use their platforms to support others, such as sharing media for mental health and helping to form a cause (collectivism). This proves that the use of social media as a tool to ensure that an identity will not experience imbalance. Instead, social media can encourage self-exploration and responsibility.

This video is an example of how individualism and collectivism come together. Being independent may be great, but we should also support people so they do not feel lonely. Being independent does not mean that we are always alone, and caring does not mean that the Book of Isa is considered weak. Maybe the Book of Isa started with simple things like smiling, saying hello, and using other methods.

A great and successful person who is caring and courageous relies on himself.