The general tendency of things throughout the world is to render mediocrity the ascendant power among mankind

The general tendency of things throughout the world is to render mediocrity the ascendant power among mankind

John Stuart Mill, a prominent philosopher and political economist of the 19th century, was a staunch advocate for individual liberty and the pursuit of excellence. In his works, Mill often discussed the concept of mediocrity and its impact on society. He believed that the general tendency of things throughout the world is to render mediocrity the ascendant power among mankind, a notion that continues to hold relevance in today's society.

Mill argued that mediocrity is often favored over excellence due to societal norms and expectations. In a world that values conformity and uniformity, those who strive for greatness are often met with resistance and skepticism. This can lead to a culture of mediocrity, where individuals are discouraged from standing out and pushing the boundaries of what is considered acceptable.

One of the key reasons for the ascendance of mediocrity, according to Mill, is the fear of failure. Society tends to discourage risk-taking and innovation, instead promoting a culture of safety and conformity. This can stifle creativity and prevent individuals from reaching their full potential. As a result, mediocrity becomes the norm, as people are more concerned with fitting in and avoiding criticism than with pursuing excellence.

Furthermore, Mill believed that the rise of mediocrity can also be attributed to the influence of mass culture and consumerism. In a society that values material wealth and instant gratification, individuals are often more concerned with superficial success than with personal growth and self-improvement. This can lead to a culture of mediocrity, where people are content to settle for mediocrity rather than strive for excellence.