Conformity in Society

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Conformity in Society To conform or not to conform, that is the question. Many societies believe conformity will create a unification and wholeness, while others believe that nonconformity results in variety and diversity. Both beliefs are true; however, they can have negative results as well. This makes conformity, like all other debatable topics, very complex because of all its advantages and disadvantages. Both conformity and individuality can be effective in a society, but nonetheless, can also cause problems to both the society and the individual. Humans are always analyzing situations, forming ideas and opinions, as well as formulating their own beliefs. People seeking individuality may argue that conformity contradicts those mental processes and does not allow for differences of opinions or beliefs nor self-expression. Meanwhile, conformists may argue that individuality would only disrupt the uniformity of a community. The truth is individuality and conformity are merely different sides of the same coin. We cannot have one without the other. We cannot have conformity unless there are individuals to conform. And we cannot have individuality unless there is conformity to break free of (Gallozzi 1). Mental aspects play a large part in our will or desire to conform. Most people naturally seek acceptance from a group or a majority, so they often compromise their own beliefs and ideas to assimilate. These people especially seek acceptance from the people whose opinions and ideas they value the most, such as friends, parents, or family. Other times, uncertainty, fear, lack of self-esteem or confidence in oneself, may lead to conformity. Someone may be willing to conform if the consequences of nonconformity are too great to bare or not worth the struggle of rebellion. Perhaps someone may conform because they believe that what the majority is doing is normal
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