individualism
    n 1: the quality of being individual; "so absorbed by the
         movement that she lost all sense of individuality" [syn:
         individuality, individualism, individuation] [ant:
         commonality, commonness]
    2: a belief in the importance of the individual and the virtue
       of self-reliance and personal independence
    3: the doctrine that government should not interfere in
       commercial affairs [syn: individualism, laissez faire]

Individualism \In`di*vid"u*al*ism\, n. [Cf. F. individualisme.]
   [1913 Webster]
   [1913 Webster]
   1. The quality of being individual; individuality;
      personality.
      [1913 Webster]

   2. An excessive or exclusive regard to one's personal
      interest; self-interest; selfishness.
      [1913 Webster]

            The selfishness of the small proprietor has been
            described by the best writers as individualism.
                                                  --Ed. Rev.
      [1913 Webster]

   3. The principle, policy, or practice of maintaining
      individuality, or independence of the individual, in
      action; the theory or practice of maintaining the
      independence of individual initiative, action, and
      interests, as in industrial organization or in government.
      [Webster 1913 Suppl.]