The Skeptic

The opinion of the majority is one of the most common, and might also be one of the most individually detrimental, standard for a person to measure his or herself against. In modern times, though, more people are growing aware that depending on the opinion of the majority to determine one’s beliefs, from morals to reputation to societal views, undermines one’s individuality. However, this raises the question of whether individuality must be publicly displayed for others to see in order to exist. As individuality refers to a character distinguishing one from others, it may be that rather than not possessing the trait, many people are instead concealing their individuality when facing conflicts with the majority opinion.

To begin with, allow me to be clear that the term ‘opinion of the majority’ does not necessarily refer to a system of government such as a democracy. Rather, the opinion of the majority is a consensus on a topic among a group. In addition, the magnitude of the term ‘majority’ is relative. A majority is the greater part of any community, from a town to a country.

Now, let us consider why being in agreement with the majority is so appealing. An immediate response would be that siding with the majority is a primal method of survival. ‘Strength in numbers’, as the saying goes. As a result of entering this assistive relationship based on mutual opinions and goals, one increases his or her chances for survival, both literally, regarding having more resources, and metaphorically, with respect to solid social standings. Having beliefs in accordance with many others, then, is still ultimately an act of self-preservation.

Moreover, agreeing with the majority may be a highly conscious act and not necessarily one of blindly following the majority. In 1951, Solomon Asch conducted an experiment to determine how group pressure might affect a person to conform. The Asch experiment revealed that most individuals were well aware that the majority opinion in the experiment had been incorrect, but agreed with that opinion to avoid mockery (McLeod, S. A. (2008). Asch experiment. Retrieved from https://www.simplypsychology.org/asch-conformity.html). In that case, people recognize their opinions differ from others and deliberately suppress their views as a method of self-defense. This awareness prompts a closer look at an individual’s ulterior motive. Ultimately, the choice to publicly conform may be a means for an individual to gain greater freedom. One is more likely to maintain his or her place in a community, and hence survive, if he or she appears to agree with the majority opinion. In consideration of this, then perhaps, as individuals, we rely on siding with the public opinion to have some leeway and privacy from the judgment of others.

When taking a public stance, many individuals weigh the conviction of his or her own beliefs against the need to ensure his or her societal well-being. If one picks the latter to protect his or herself but still believes in his or her own opinion, most would call that relinquishing one’s principles. Still, one must recognize that there is no loss of individuality, as long as others look beyond the surface.