individualism

n. theory which emphasizes the rights and independence of the individual; independent thought and action; individuality

For articles with similar names and topics, see Individual (disambiguation). Individualism is a term used to describe a moral, political, or social outlook that stresses human independence and the importance of individual self-reliance and liberty. Individualists promote the exercise of individual goals and desires. They oppose most external interference with an individual's choices - whether by society, the state, or any other group or institution. Individualism is therefore opposed to holism, collectivism, fascism, communalism, statism, totalitarianism, and communitarianism, which stress that communal, group, societal, racial, or national goals should take priority over individual goals. Individualism is also opposed to the view that tradition, religion, or any other form of external moral standard should be used to limit an individual's choice of actions.
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Noun
1. the quality of being individual; "so absorbed by the movement that she lost all sense of individuality"
(synonym) individuality, individuation
(hypernym) trait
(hyponym) singularity, uniqueness
(attribute) individual
2. a belief in the importance of the individual and the virtue of self-reliance and personal independence
(hypernym) belief
(hyponym) rugged individualism
3. the doctrine that government should not interfere in commercial affairs
(synonym) laissez faire
(hypernym) doctrine, philosophy, philosophical system, school of thought, ism

(n.)
The quality of being individual; individuality; personality.
  

(n.)
An excessive or exclusive regard to one's personal interest; self-interest; selfishness.
  

See internalism .