Word of the Day
April 27, 2020
Individuality
The quality or character of a particular person or thing that distinguishes them from others; the sum of the characteristics that make a person or thing unique and different from all others.
From Medieval Latin 'individualitas', from Latin 'individuus' meaning 'indivisible', from 'in-' (not) + 'dividuus' (divisible). First used in English in the early 17th century to describe the distinct character of a person.
Usage Examples
- The Founders enshrined protections for individuality, recognizing that a free society depends on citizens who think and act independently.
- Government lockdowns threaten individuality by treating all citizens as identical units to be managed rather than unique persons with different circumstances.
- Brigitte Gabriel's story demonstrates how individuality and personal initiative can transform tragedy into a movement of over a million Americans.
From the Show
Eddie Rickenbacker’s identification of individuality as one of America’s four foundational virtues framed the April 27, 2020 discussion on resisting the collective fear response to COVID-19 and preserving the personal liberties that define American character.