Moving the Mountain · Theme
Collectivism vs. Individualism
How Moving the Mountain develops Collectivism vs. Individualism.
The book contrasts the old world's 'belated individualism' with a new social order where ethics, work, and even personal identity are defined by one's contribution to the collective good, with social duty superseding personal gain.
Where it surfaces
- VI
The dialogue contrasts the old individualistic economic model with the new collectivist view where work is seen as social service, and the community takes responsibility for human welfare.
- VIII
The discussion of 'loving your neighbor as yourself' and the shift from individual to collective consciousness highlights the tension between these concepts.
- The New Education and the Arts
The narrative contrasts the old individualistic society with the new collectivist approach, especially in education and community living.
- Chapter XI
Frank Borderson explicitly states that the mistakes of the past lay in 'belated individualism' and that ethics cannot be predicated on individuals, highlighting the shift to a collective social consciousness.