Main Entry:

in·di·vid·u·al·ism

Pronunciation:

\ˌin-də-ˈvij-wə-ˌli-zəm, -ˈvi-jə-wə-, -ˈvi-jə-ˌli-\

Function:

noun

Date:

1827

1 a (1): a doctrine that the interests of the individual are or ought to be ethically paramount ; also : conduct guided by such a doctrine (2): the conception that all values, rights, and duties originate in individuals b: a theory maintaining the political and economic independence of the individual and stressing individual initiative, action, and interests ; also : conduct or practice guided by such a theory2 a: individuality b: an individual peculiarity : idiosyncrasy