People are gregarious by necessity. Since the days of the first cave dwellers, humans-hairless, weak, and helpless save for cunning-have survived by joining together in groups; knowing, as so many other edible creatures have found, that there is protection in numbers. And that knowledge, bred in the bone, is what lies behind mob rule. Because to step outside the group, let alone to stand against it, was for uncounted thousands of years death to the creature who dared it. To stand against a crowd would take something more than ordinary courage; something that went beyond human instinct. And I feared I did not have it, and fearing, was ashamed.
Humans have always been social creatures, relying on collective strength for survival since prehistoric times. This instinct to join together stems from an understanding that being part of a group offers safety. Throughout history, those who have defied this social norm often faced dire consequences, reinforcing the idea that unity is not just beneficial but essential for survival. This historical context explains the phenomenon of mob behavior, where individuals often conform to the majority due to deep-seated social instincts.
In moments of self-reflection, the fear of stepping away from the group can lead to feelings of shame and inadequacy. The challenge of standing alone requires extraordinary courage, a quality that not everyone may believe they possess. This internal struggle highlights the tension between individualism and conformity, and the innate human desire to belong, illustrating a profound aspect of the human condition.
