Individualism In Modern Society: What Is Modernity?

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What is Modernity? “Modernity refers being contemporary in a post-Medieval, modern time marked by a questioning or rejection of tradition; the prioritization of individualism, freedom and formal equality; faith in inevitable social, scientific and technological progress and human perfectibility, rationalization and professionalization,” according to Wikipedia. While modernity is expressed differently in various cultures and times, its characteristic changes have political, economic and social ramifications for individuals and society. First, modernity is clearly evident of historic political changes. In the post war era of the 50's and 60's black people were not treated as equals to whites, or entitled to the same rights and freedoms …show more content…

Behaviour that was once vilified becomes acceptable as tolerance grows in modern times. For example, homosexuality was unacceptable in the past and considered to be depraved. Now it is no longer judged harshly by modern politically- correct people, while ironically, anyone who decries it is likely to be deemed homophobic and archaically intolerant. Another example is that divorce, rare in the past when women relied heavily on their husbands, is commonplace in today's modern world, when many women are much more independent. They have more of their own say and means of financial support so divorce occurs much more often if they are unhappy in a marriage. Divorce can be costly and painful, and since the trend in modernity is that the rate is on the rise, compatibility and commitment should be considered very carefully before choosing a marriage partner. Prenuptial agreements might be considered to split assets equitably in case of divorce in the future, even before one marries at all, and remaining single is also a popular lifestyle these days. To me, being modern isn’t just about what you wear or the music that you choose, or how many apps your smart phone has; it is about how you think, what you feel, and your ability to express that. For example, tattoos used to have to be

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