Individuality V Nationality
The Importance of Individuality There are different opinions on whether individuality or nationality is more important than one another. People like Sui Sin Far who consider that individuality is more important believe that having a deep sense of well being is a priority over identifying yourself with others since it gives a person more freedom to be unique. Individuality contributes to the society by offering different perspectives as opposed to nationality binding a group of people to the same beliefs. Having a different viewpoint from others can help open ignorant minds. An example of an individual with a different viewpoint from others is Atticus Finch in Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird. In the novel, he is considered a “nigger lover” in the town of Maycomb because he is a white man defending Tom, a black man accused of raping a white girl. Living in a community full of racism, Atticus took the courage to defend someone who was helpless because he believed everyone should be treated equally. During the trial, Atticus is able to expose the true culprit and reveal Tom's innocence, greatly affecting Maycomb and teaching his children, Scout and Jem, to not be judgemental or to quickly believe what everyone else believes. In the end, Tom is still accused of being guilty, but the town sides with Atticus because they know the truth. In addition, differences in perspectives allow for new ideas to thrive. This is the case for many innovators who invent convenient creations. Although the feat of taking to the sky was doubted and regarded as impossible, Orville and Willbur Wright invented the airplane and successfully flew it. The invention of the airplane was significant because it allowed for a faster mode of transportation to different areas of the world, creating a global economy and opening the world to others. On the other hand, in a society that expects a person to conform to the masses, individuality can be difficult to maintain. The need for acceptance