Humans are losing 'uniqueness' as people no longer desire to stand out

Once upon a time, standing out and embracing uniqueness was desirable. However, recent studies suggest a major change over the past two decades. It seems we’ve become fond of the idea of blending in, of being just another face in the crowd.

Enter William Chopik, associate professor in the Department of Psychology at Michigan State University. Chopik is the lead author of a study that uncovers a dramatic decline in the desire to be different. That’s right, we’re less keen on standing out these days, and it’s all backed by some pretty formidable evidence.

Quest for uniqueness

The study spans a period of 20 years, from 2000 to 2020. Its findings track the desire for individualism in a whopping million people.

Uniqueness, for the purpose of this study, is broken down into three facets: worry over others’ perceptions, the urge to break the established norms, and the readiness to publicly uphold personal beliefs. But, all three of these elements saw a decline during the study period.

Why are we afraid to stand out?

The most staggering drops were seen in the public defense of personal beliefs (6.52% decline), and an increasing concern about public opinion (4.28% decline). These numbers might sound small, but as Chopik points out, “a 6.52% decline is a dramatic population change in as short as 20 years.”

And why these drops? The data points to a possible explanation. Perhaps individuals see expressing their uniqueness as a threat to social acceptance. Yes, standing out might make them vulnerable to exclusion. Or worse, cancellation.

Is it truly worthwhile?

Chopik’s study warns us of the possible implications of this trend. Suppressing our true selves to fit into societal molds can sometimes have an adverse effect, triggering feelings of guilt and anxiety. And let’s not forget, this often leads to increased hostility.

“It’s really important to have people willing to go against the grain – say the occasional unpopular thing, challenge groupthink, highlight the need to compromise with people different than us, and not cover up the diversity of opinions and people because they’re too scared to stand out,” says Chopik.

Perceptions of uniqueness on social media

In today’s interconnected world, social media platforms wield immense power over individual perceptions and behaviors. While these platforms can facilitate the expression of diverse opinions and lifestyles, they also contribute to a culture of comparison and conformity.

As users curate their online personas, the pressure to fit in intensifies, often leading to a hedonic treadmill of dissatisfaction where uniqueness is celebrated only if it conforms to prevailing trends.

Chopik’s study provides critical context here: as the desire for uniqueness declines, it begs the question: are we shaping our identities based on genuine self-expression or merely mirroring the expectations set by our digital environments?

Reclaiming individuality

Despite the unsettling trend of conformity, there lies an opportunity for revitalizing the celebration of uniqueness. To counteract societal pressures, individuals can begin cultivating a mindset that embraces self-acceptance and authenticity.

Engaging in open dialogues about differences, fostering environments that encourage dissenting opinions, and understanding the value of diverse perspectives are vital steps.

We must not cover up the diversity of opinions, but rather embrace them. Ultimately, reclaiming our individuality not only enriches our lives but also contributes to a more nuanced and empathetic society.

An appeal for authenticity

In an age where everyone seems connected through various platforms, we find ourselves paradoxically isolated in our personal lives. This raises an important question: is it truly worth sacrificing our individuality to fit into a crowd?

While the notion of standing out may feel intimidating, especially in a world that often celebrates conformity, we should consider the value of being authentic. Embracing our true selves allows us to form deeper connections with others and to live more fulfilling lives.

It’s essential to recognize that the cost of blending in can be higher than the fear of being different. After all, authenticity fosters genuine relationships and enriches our experiences. The pursuit of fitting in may not be worth the price we pay.

Embracing our uniqueness can be a powerful way to inspire others and create a more diverse and vibrant community. Isn’t it time we embraced our individuality, in all its vibrant diversity?

The study is published in the journal Collabra: Psychology.

—–

Like what you read? Subscribe to our newsletter for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates. 

Check us out on EarthSnap, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

—–