The World Beyond Your Head

In this chapter, the discussion centers around the evolving concept of individualism and its impact on mental health, particularly depression. Crawford references Alain Ehrenberg’s work, which connects the rise of depression to the shift from a society governed by strict roles and taboos to one that emphasizes personal initiative and self-realization. This shift has led to an increased sense of personal responsibility, where failure is deeply stigmatized and individuals constantly feel the pressure to succeed, which results in what Ehrenberg calls a “culture of performance” (161). This relentless push toward self-optimization and the lack of external constraints often leaves individuals feeling inadequate and overwhelmed, which contributes to the prevalence of depression. Moreover, this shift has transformed depression into what Ehrenberg describes as an “illness of responsibility” (161), where failure to live up to one’s own or society’s expectations can lead to feelings of inadequacy.

Crawford also discusses the implications of this shift on social mobility and individual perception. He notes that despite statistical evidence of stagnant or declining social mobility in America, there remains a strong cultural belief in meritocracy. He ties this belief to the American value of radical individualism, which holds that one’s destiny is entirely in their own hands.