why dont other societies promote individualism ?

Question

it has worked for america - today, US is a global superpower.

Answer 1

There a number of reasons why many countries do not promote individualism. Culture and religion are usually at the bottom of it. For instance, the Catholic church persecuted Galileo for his innovative thinking. But he proved right, and all the Roman Church did was hinder the progress of knowledge. Some nations use culture the same way. By drawing prescribed boundaries around what a person can do because of race, color, class in society, or gender, a nation will lose out on the creativity of many of its people. In the nation of India, the tightly knit class structure does not allow the lower classes the opportunity for an education, or an honest chance to make a difference in their society.
What it boils down to is a mistrust of human nature, and a fear that free thinking society will displace the existing power structure. And those in power would rather maintain their place of power than advance human knowledge and understanding. And another major factor is a high degree of arrogance by those who hold power in any nation. It is the belief that those in power already know everything that is needed for their people, and that nothing more is necessary for the people.
And, as history has shown, these are the most common power bases in the world, and the least likely to advance.

Answer 2

Societies don't promote individualism because individuals are hard to control.

Don't give the US this much credit - our society doesn't promote individualism either. Conformity and fitting in is heavily promoted. We think we have choice - but it is a facade. Our choices are dictated to us like everyone else.

Answer 3

they are afraid of losing control. individuals think for themselves, ask questions, and demand answers from their leaders. leaders who want to keep the status quo going discourage free thinkers.