Conformity

Conformity is a topic that can be very simple, very complicated, or anywhere in between. Conformity can come in many forms and have strong effects. One of the most common forms of conformity occurs when “an identity [is] wholly imposed upon us by other people” (Solomon 311). Giving in to peer pressure or just agreeing with peers can also be a form of conformity. The effects of conformity can be both positive and negative.

When a foreign behavior or belief is forced on to a person it often becomes a part of their identity. The most common example of this occurs when a parent or teacher tells someone what “good” behavior is. Parts of a person’s identity are often purely the result of a behavior imposed on them. While growing up, many children are told to keep their rooms clean. If they refuse, a punishment such as a “Time Out” may ensue. Eventually the child learns that it is important to keep their room clean. Because of the parents, the child adds the belief that their room must be clean to their identity. The end result is a change in the child’s identity because of a belief that was imposed on him or her by a parent.

Conformity can also occur when someone gives in to peer pressure or abandons their beliefs in order to accept what is “cool” at the time. The best example of peer pressure I can think of is illegal drug use. If a person who is vehemently opposed to illegal drug use is pressured into using the drugs, they may have lost part of their identity. Music can be a good example of something a person would accept in order to be cool, even if it goes against their beliefs. People who enjoy rock music may be opposed to some rap and hip hop songs because of the messages they convey. If some of their friends enjoy the music the person may set their judgements aside in order to fit in with their friends. Both examples are examples of conformity that come about as a result of the beliefs of others affecting someone who would otherwise disagree.

Conformity can have many different effects on people. Sometimes a person may later be grateful that they changed their beliefs. If someone is forced to accept that a clean room is important they will often look back and be glad they learned the lesson. They have come to enjoy the sight of a neat room. Also, a person’s taste in music often changes throughout their life. Even if they start with a negative bias, a person may gradually begin to enjoy the music. On the other hand, accepting the music could have negative consequences. The messages conveyed through the music may change the attitude of the listener. Illegal drug use is the same. Side effects of the drug could cause permanent damage. Conformity can be very powerful and must be treated as such.

Works Cited

Solomon, Robert C. Introducing Philosophy. New York: Oxford UP, 2008.