Habits of the Heart: Individualism and Commitment in American Life

Published initially in 1985, Habits of the Heart arrived at a notable juncture in American history, a period marked by significant economic, social, and political transformations. This era saw the ascendancy of neoliberal ideologies, heightened consumerism, and the erosion of traditional communal bonds, setting the stage for an exploration of the American character and values.

Central to the American ethos, individualism is both celebrated as a source of freedom and innovation and critiqued for undermining social cohesion and communal responsibility. The roots of American individualism trace back to the nation’s founding principles. The frontier spirit, the Protestant ethic, and the rise of capitalism combined to create a culture that highly values personal autonomy, self-reliance, and the pursuit of individual success.

For example, the Protestant ethic, as articulated by sociologist Max Weber in his work The Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism (1904), has been influential in shaping American individualism. Weber argued that certain aspects of Protestantism, especially those related to Calvinism, encouraged a focus on hard work, frugality, and diligence as means of demonstrating one’s elect status before God. This religious ethos translated into worldly asceticism, where success in one’s profession was seen as a sign of divine favor. In the American context, the Protestant ethic merged with the country’s nascent capitalism to create a cultural force that valorized personal achievement and economic success as markers of moral worth. The emphasis on individual salvation and a direct relationship with God fostered a sense of personal responsibility and autonomy, further reinforcing the notion of individualism. This religious underpinning provided a moral justification for the pursuit of wealth and success, linking economic prosperity with virtuous living.

Furthermore, the Protestant ethic contributed to the development of a culture that highly values personal freedom, choice, and the pursuit of individual goals. The democratization of religion in America, where the proliferation of denominations and the absence of a state church empowered individuals to choose their own paths to salvation, mirrored and reinforced the broader cultural emphasis on individual choice and self-determination. This intersection of religious belief and economic behavior created a fertile ground for the growth of capitalism and the entrenchment of individualism in American society. The Protestant ethic, with its emphasis on personal achievement and responsibility, has been a notable component in the development of the American dream—the belief that anyone, regardless of background, can succeed through hard work and determination.