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"هر چیزی که فردیت را سرکوب کند استبداد است به هر نامی که خوانده شود"

John Stuart Mill
John Stuart Mill Philosopher
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Quote meaning
The essence of this quote is about the importance of individuality and the dangers of any force or system that tries to suppress it. It highlights that no matter what label you give it—whether it's a government, a culture, or even a family—if something is trying to squash your unique self, it's oppressive.

Now, let's take a step back in history. This idea has been echoed through the ages, with thinkers like John Stuart Mill championing individual liberty during the 19th century. Mill argued that society often tries to impose its own norms and values on individuals, but true freedom means being able to express yourself without fear of being crushed by the majority.

Alright, let’s get into a real-life scenario. Picture this: a young woman in a small town with a strong tradition. She’s passionate about art—painting wild, abstract pieces that don’t fit the town’s usual taste. The local council, which hosts the annual art fair, decides her work is too unconventional. They don't outright ban her, but they place her work in a back corner, where it’s hard to see. She’s being subtly told that her unique perspective doesn’t belong. Over time, this constant dismissal could lead her to abandon her art altogether, her individuality stifled.

So how can you take this wisdom and run with it? First, recognize the value of your unique traits and ideas. Whether at work, in your community, or even within your family, don’t shy away from expressing what makes you different. Celebrate it. If you ever feel pressure to conform, think about whether it's worth sacrificing your individuality. Often, it’s not.

Imagine you’re at a team meeting at work, and everyone is leaning towards a standard solution to a problem. You have a wild idea—something out-of-the-box and risky. It’s nerve-wracking to speak up, but you do. Sure, some might raise an eyebrow, but others might see the potential in your unique approach. Maybe it sparks a new direction that no one had considered.

Now, let’s talk about a relatable story. Think about Steve Jobs and Apple. Jobs was known for his relentless pursuit of innovation. When he returned to Apple in the late 90s, the company was on the verge of collapse, sticking to safe, boring products that didn’t stand out. Jobs pushed for unique, cutting-edge designs, like the iMac and later the iPhone. He faced resistance, but his commitment to individuality revolutionized the industry. Imagine if he had bowed to the pressure to conform and play it safe. We might still be using clunky computers and basic phones.

In our own lives, we might not be creating the next iPhone, but the principle remains. Whether it's the way you dress, the hobbies you pursue, or the ideas you propose, hold onto what makes you unique. It’s not just about personal fulfillment—individuality drives progress and innovation. So next time you feel the pressure to blend in, remember: standing out might just change the world.
Related tags
Authoritarianism Autonomy Despotism Freedom Individuality Liberty Oppression Self-expression Tyranny
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