Individualism and collectivism: pro et contra

The formation of peoples’ mentality and behavior is influenced by various factors, including geographical, economic, religious, political, cultural, and psychological ones. The system of values shaped by mythological and religious beliefs is crucial because it is deeply ingrained in the “collective unconscious” and further reinforced through oral folklore during childhood. The development of group and individual self-identities is particularly significant as it involves a comparison between “us” and “them”. In Northern European countries, the “visual” dominant and Protestantism shaped the prevalence of individualism. Conversely, Eastern countries have developed a focus on collectivism and group responsibility as a forced response to external threats. This dominant collective mindset is grounded in spiritual (religious) unity and communal ownership of land.