Individualism is a theory that recognizes the individual as the central part of society and aims to establish that the state should not interfere in individuals' lives so they can determine their own destiny freely. Key thinkers who shaped this view include Adam Smith, Jeremy Bentham, J.S. Mill, and Herbert Spencer. While individualism led to market expansion and lower prices, it also brought drawbacks like economic depressions and worsening living conditions in urban areas due to overpopulation. The conclusion is that pure individualism in government is not possible and no modern state entirely follows this philosophy of keeping the state limited to only police functions.

1. The Theory of Individualism
Aditya Kashyap
Roll no. 16183
Group no. - XIX
Approaches to study functions of STATE

2. A Brief Study Of INDIVIDUALISM
Concept
of laissez-
faire
Individualism is the study of State, recognising the
individual as the centre of all social life and aims to
establish that the State should keep hands-off him
to determine his own destiny and free development
of his capacities and interests.
“Each Individual is the best judge of his own
interests and his act of making choices
contributes to the development of his own
personality as well as to the welfare of society.”

3. Political Thinkers who shaped the World
Adam Smith Jeremy Bentham
J S Mill
Herbert Spencer
• Influence of Physiocrats
• Concept of Economic Man
• Concept of Natural Liberty
• Concept of Utility
• Principles of Legislations
• Functions of Government

4. Individualism : Outreach in Indian Society
Raja Ram Mohun Roy
Mahadeva Govind Ranade
Gopal Krishna Gokhale
Swami Vivekananda

5. Economic & Political Consequences
Expansion of Markets - Reduction of Prices
Drawback – Economic Depression
Urbanisation- Overpopulation- living conditions
worsen
The Rise of Capitalism
Influence over Government Decisions

6. Conclusion
• The philosophy rests upon false assumptions and Pure
INDIVIDUALISM in the conduct of Government is
not possible.
• Even in Today’s Liberal World, we don’t find any state
which is simply a Police-State and follows in entirety the
Practice as preached by the philosophy.