The idea of individualism in America is strongly linked to capitalism, which defines success and what it means to be a good person. Capitalism has introduced the exchange of money, leading to a transactional approach to services like childcare and house-building. This contrasts with the more relational and community-based support seen among people with less access to money. The definition of success emphasizes being a self-made individual, but it often overlooks the help received from existing systems and privileges, such as wealth, race, gender, ability, and sexual orientation. Acknowledging help is considered a weakness, and asking for help is stigmatized.
The values of individualism that encourage us to go it alone are in constant tension with the desire for community that many people crave. But when attempting to do things on our own, we may miss out on the joys of coming together.
This season’s finale conversation features writer Mia Birdsong, who highlights the cultural and philosophical roots of Americans’ struggle to build community. In a culture pushing us to put our own oxygen mask on first, Mia argues for the quiet radicalness of asking for help and showing up for others.
This episode was produced by Rebecca Rashid and is hosted by Julie Beck. Editing by Jocelyn Frank. Fact-check by Ena Alvarado. Engineering by Rob Smerciak. Special thanks to A.C. Valdez. The executive producer of Audio is Claudine Ebeid; the managing editor of Audio is Andrea Valdez.
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Music by Arthur Benson (“Organized Chaos,” “Charmed Encounter”), Alexandra Woodward (“A Little Tip,” “Just Manners”), Bomull (“Latte”), Tellsonic (“The Whistle Funk”), and Yonder Dale (“Simple Gestures”).
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