Humans in their natural state -- prior to the invention of government in 3300 B.C. -- were very loyal to themselves, but also fairly loyal to their various tribes and superstitions, which they also probably somewhat feared and disliked. Humans under government -- but prior to the invention of reason and science in 600 B.C. -- were even more dedicated to themselves, which they understood much better, due to explanatory mythology, extensive aphorisms, and accumulated human knowledge. But they were also probably pretty dedicated to their nation and its polytheism. Their lives had become deeper and better as the level of their facts and wisdom increased significantly.
Humans with reason-based science and philosophy at their disposal after 600 B.C. were generally even more self-loving, self-realized, and individualistic than before. But they also had the option of two new false alternatives and profound evils in front of them: collectivism and religion.
All three beliefs were powerful. All three epistemologies and moral codes had and have relatively good arguments in favor of them. People in the classical period and up to today overwhelmingly tend to blend them -- to pick what they think is the best of all three worlds. That's nice.
But only one of the three belief-systems and philosophies leads to the richest life and greatest happiness for the Holy Individual. Only one choice makes him the most rational, healthy, alive, strong, and magnificent.
There is a great need in life to study reality and the universe precisely and profoundly. This generally leads to the understanding that the best life is that which has the highest goals and finest ideals, and thus is the most purposeful and meaningful. This is certainly the philosophy and lifestyle of individualism.
Self exploitation and self fulfillment is the truest path. This is the idea-system which is the most loyal and dedicated to you. Only individualism will let you do and be your best. Collectivism and religion are deviant beliefs which take you away from the proper path and toward strange and hostile lands.
An intellectual idea-system based upon self-interest lets you best exploit your opportunities and realize your potential. This, in turn, leads to the most individual achievement and personal greatness. The end result is you get a chance to experience the maximum possible that life has to offer in interest, fascination, excitement, exhilaration, pleasure, ecstasy, joy, and happiness. A philosophy and lifestyle of individualism lets you fulfill your destiny.
But the alternative philosophies of collectivism and religion are still fairly impressive and persuasive -- at least on the surface. Their siren songs constitute somewhat subtle traps. But these belief-systems are gross errors which unfailingly take you down the dead-end paths of pain, suffering, misery, and death.
So, instead, take the path of individualism! Don't worship or slavishly serve the masses or the gods -- neither of which truly exists. You should worship, or at least respectfully befriend, noble and heroic individuals who have substantially fulfilled themselves and achieved a lot. You should also worship yourself.
Trust in reason, your thinking mind, and your own individual perception of reality and the truth. But still listen quite a bit to those older, wiser, and better than yourself which you particularly respect and admire. And stay as far away as possible from the grandiose disasters of the belief-systems of collectivism and religion. Show complete loyalty and dedication to your own Sacred Self as you embrace the philosophy and lifestyle of ferocious, intransigent, glorious individualism!
