Automaton Conformity

Synonyms

Accord; Amalgamate; Assimilation; Blend; Conformance; Congruence; Homogenize; Integrate

Definition

To transform one’s concept of self in response to feelings of inadequacy to reflect a perception of a societal preference, losing one’s true self in return

Introduction

Automaton conformity is an idea first described by Erich Fromm as one’s strategy to overcome the powerful feeling of insignificance in comparison to the perception of societal adequacy (1941). Automaton conformity requires the ability to sacrifice individuality while developing a personality through cultural patterns or norms. It is the hope to find worth through assimilating into what one understands to be the expectation of society. This construct inhibits self-determination, independent learning, critical thinking, autonomous reaction, personal virtue, and moral conviction. For example, a member of a sorority might have minimal confidence in her own dispositional autonomy. She may begin to conform her...