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I grew up studying the "rugged individualism" of Americans. This was marked - noteably - by a Protestant Work Ethic. Put together, you had a people who valued hard work but centered their work on advancing their own station in life. 

We have a new descriptor: "Expressive Individualism." This is a branch of rugged individualism, but this seeks the advancement of the self through public expression instead of hard work. That moniker has marked upcoming generations.

Author Brett McCracken in this article (access it --> here <-- or watch the 3:30-minute video below) offers the change in worldview. Once upon a time, it was said that people wanted their "15 minutes of fame." Now, people seek their fame among 15 people.

Their journey in search of this audience is not honest expression, but rather, stage-produced entertainment as expression. After all, the goal is to get likes, subscribers, and followers. There is specific brain science tied to how success of social media productions tickles the senses and creates a craving for more. 

The answer is a return to the Word of God and a living community of people in a live church, working without cameras rolling, sacrificing silently, and serving the Greater One. In other words, the answer toany flavor of individualism is humble service in a living gospel-centered community.