Hot take (would appreciate discussion on this point if anyone (dis)agrees): individualism and collectivism are both good and necessary, but it depends on their direction. Top-down individualism, I would say, is necessary for a government that respects the rights of its citizens. If the highest ideal of the highest governmental authority is fundamentally collective, then the government can justify ignoring the rights of the individuals by using the "greater good" as a scapegoat.

Bottom-up individualism fundamentally becomes toxic. But bottom-up collectivism helps me maintain my relationship with my neighbors, my community, and my country. In a world where each of these philosophies is in balance, and coming from the appropriate place, I think we can produce a more civil, polite, and effective society. However, when either force overwhelms the other, or is applied from the incorrect direction, I think it leads to great injustice and lack of consideration for either the non-politicians, or those in our communities.