Why I chose this question:
Learning more about individuality and originality in this day and age is something I personally find extremely intriguing. With the continuous normalization of trends, it is becoming increasingly more difficult to express oneself in the most authentic fashion. In the media, it almost feels like the vast majority of content is carefully curated, slowly diminishing authenticity through countless filters and edited digital personas. Ultimately, performatism is at an all-time high, creating a society that is held under the belief that every action we perform must be perceived as “aesthetic” to the majority. Throughout the three rounds of research I conducted, I was able to dive deep in regard to the topic of the correlation between social media and individuality, as well as a few ways one can try to remain in their most authentic state.
What challenges did you overcome throughout this inquiry project? How did you go about overcoming these challenges?
Over the course of the semester, I had to overcome the challenge of distinguishing actions which are deemed performative vs. real authentic activities. When considering the topic of social media, it is difficult to label whether a person is being original or simply curating their actions to fit into a larger pleasing manner. Another challenge I faced throughout my research was finding effective ways in which a person can revert back to their most authentic self. Through continuous research, I had to sort through a variety of sources to make sure that all of the information online was factual, and in mutual agreement in comparison to others.
I overcame this challenge by spending a little bit more time sifting through all of the websites available, and finding data from multiple different sources that were similar in order to acquire the most precise details.
How did this inquiry change the way you think?
This Inquiry project has been extremely educational; providing me with valuable information regarding this topic. Before I started doing my research about this topic, I was unaware of the concept of individuality and never considered authenticity to be an admirable attribute. However, now that I’ve gained more insight into the topic, I have a better understanding of individuality and how the everchanging nature of trends negatively has an impact on originality. Whenever I’m on a social media platform, I try harder to distinguish whether someone is being original or just mirroring the actions of others to further curate their digital image/persona. Within my personal relationships, I’ve grown to value individuality more, viewing the trait as praiseworthy when someone have the bravery to withhold from conforming into the majority of the population. Overall, there is a substantial amount of benefits I have learned from this project, useful within every aspect of my life.
How did this investigation impact your future decisions?
This investigation opened my perspective into viewing individuality as a sacred trait. It may sound hard to believe, but finding true authenticity amidst an environment that is always changing and evolving is quite difficult. This Inquiry has already impacted and will continue to impact the decisions I make moving forward in terms of forming relationships and setting concrete values with originality in mind. I’m grateful that I chose to research about individuality as I have gained so much knowledge that is very useful, beyond a classroom setting.
What impact will this investigation have on others locally and/or globally?
This investigation will have a positive impact on others both locally and globally. The impact will be positive as it is extremely beneficial to have a concrete understanding on the topic of individuality and how it is relevant within the society. Overall, learning about this Inquiry has made me realize how honorable authenticity is and that it is a highly praiseworthy attribute for so few who possess it. My goal is for my peers locally to understand just how imperative individuality is and that ultimately, existing in your truest nature is when you will feel most satisfied with the beauty of life. I hope that if not now, one day, people will come to realize that individuality and authenticity are sacred; displaying qualities such as courage, bravery, and inner-peace.
The most common form of despair is not being who you are – Soren Kierkegaard
Thank you very much for reading. I hope you learned something new!
-Vanessa Vukovic