n recent years, there has been a growing trend of hyper-individualism in Pakistani society. Hyper-individualism refers to the belief that individuals should prioritise their own needs, desires and goals over those of the society as a whole. The mindset has become more widespread recently and is having a profound impact on the way people interact and the overall health of the society.

Technology has played a significant role in promoting and reinforcing hyper-individualistic values and attitudes.

It is widely believed that social media has the potential to make people feel more isolated and disconnected from others, even though these are designed to connect people. This is because social media can foster a false sense of connection and substitute it for meaningful human interaction.

People may spend hours scrolling through their social media feeds, seeing the highlights of other people’s lives, but not experiencing genuine interaction or building real relationships. This can lead to feelings of loneliness and low self-esteem as people compare their own lives to the curated and idealised versions of other lives that they see online.

One of the major consequences of hyper-individualism is the decline of social cohesion in the community. People are becoming increasingly focused on their own needs and desires. As a result, they are less likely to engage in social activities and to support their communities. For example, people may be less likely to volunteer at local charities, or to help their neighbours in need. This lack of engagement can lead to a breakdown in trust and a loss of social capital, which is essential for the functioning of society.

The isolation and loneliness resulting from hyper-individualism can also have negative impacts on health. Research has shown that loneliness and social isolation can increase the risk of premature death and can contribute to a variety of physical and mental health problems, including heart disease, depression and cognitive decline.

Another effect of hyper-individualism is the rise of consumerism. As people prioritise their own desires, they are becoming more focused on material goods and possessions. This has led to an increase in consumer spending and a corresponding increase in debt. People may be more likely, for instance, to buy a new car or a designer outfit, even if they can’t afford it. The spending is required to keep up with societal expectations. This focus on material goods is also harming the environment, as people consume more resources and generate more waste.

The focus on individual achievement and success can also lead to a decline in political participation and civic engagement. As individuals become less invested in the political process, they are less likely to participate in elections or engage in public discourse.

Politicians who prioritise their own personal interests over the needs of the public may make decisions that harm the well-being of the general population. This can include policies that prioritise economic growth over social welfare or decisions that undermine the stability of the economy or the environment.

Hyper-individualism is also contributing to the erosion of traditional values and norms in Pakistani society. People are becoming less concerned with the well-being of others and more focused on personal gain. This can lead to an increase in crime and social disorder, as well as a decline in moral standards. For example, people may be more likely to cheat on their taxes, or to engage in unethical business practices, if they believe it will benefit them personally.

The idea of a customised life partner or a robot designed specifically to meet an individual’s needs and desires can also be seen as an example of hyper-individualism. This scenario reflects a focus on individual achievement and satisfaction, often at the expense of social connectedness and community engagement.

In such a scenario, individuals may prioritise their desires and goals, neglecting the importance of human relationships and social connection. This could contribute to increased feelings of loneliness and isolation and could further exacerbate the negative effects of hyper-individualism.

While hyper-individualism may provide some benefits to individuals, it negatively impacts the society. It is important for people to balance their personal needs with the needs of others and to prioritise the well-being of their communities and the environment. Only by working together can we ensure a better future for all. By volunteering, supporting local charities and participating in community events, people can help build strong and vibrant communities. By reducing consumption and waste, they can help protect the environment for future generations.

The writer is an associate professor at the Department of Sociology, University of Sindh, Jamshoro