Hellenistic Philosophy of Individualism
Introduction
Behaviors and practices of human beings have undergone significant changes. There are significant differences in how people conduct themselves today when compared to the ancient period. Human beings change various aspects of life to make life easy and comfortable. Despite the differences, ancient philosophies are still evident and influential in the modern world. The Hellenistic kingdom’s philosophy of governance and pursuing happiness is evident in the life of modern people. Individualism is traced back to Hellenistic society. This paper describes the influence of the Hellenistic kingdom in shaping the modern individualism.
During the Hellenistic period, philosophers emphasized the exclusion of individual citizens in shaping social structures of society (History, 2016). A centralized government was responsible for the entire well-being of the society with limited participation of individual citizens. Hellenistic philosophers focused upon the life of an individual which they considered independent on factors in the society beyond that are beyond the control of humans. According to History (2016), certain characters and actions can propel an individual towards a good life and happiness, despite the prevailing condition in the society. As such, the achievement of a dream and happiness of a person is dependent of their behaviors and actions. People must learn how to survive in the dynamic external environment to find happiness. In the today’s society, every man seems to be for themselves. Human beings across the world are looking up to the central government to solve various problems in their societies. This behavior resembles the philosophy of the Hellenistic kingdom.
Conclusion
Individualism evident in the present society dates back to the Hellenistic kingdom that reduced the participation of citizens in shaping the structures of the society. Hellenistic philosophy held that the life of a person is independent of the society as a whole. Actions and behaviors of people influence their pursuit of happiness and a good life. Today, the majority of people pursue their individual goals just like in the Hellenistic period.