Read the passage given below and then answer the questions given below the passage.
In today's world, there is a pervasive belief that talent or effort can elevate anyone to the top, but this myth can be particularly harmful. The early 21st century is marked by various crises—liberal democracy, the global economy, the environment, ageing populations, migration, misinformation, and masculinity—all collectively described as a global "polycrisis." Adding to this, there exists a subtler but equally serious issue: a global crisis in self-esteem.
Self-esteem, or one’s evaluation of personal success based on individual standards, is in decline worldwide. In globalized and economically unequal societies, this issue is most acute. Modern self-esteem is tied to individual performance, unlike the rigid social roles of feudal societies where expectations were limited to one’s predetermined position. In premodern times, success was relative to one’s role, providing a sense of normalcy. However, as feudal hierarchies dissolved and the doctrines of universal rights gained prominence, self-worth became linked to personal achievements and individuality.
Today, societal narratives emphasize "being true to oneself" and pursuing unique paths, which has led to intense competition for self-esteem. Even ordinary decisions, such as choosing a career, are seen as expressions of individuality. While this ethos allows for diversity, it fosters an environment where success is defined by outperformance. For many, this makes being "average" feel like failure, creating feelings of inadequacy and guilt.
The fluidity of modern social positions contributes to this crisis. Unlike in feudal societies, where social mobility was inconceivable, today’s aspirational narratives make it imaginable for anyone to become a billionaire or a celebrity. Although actual social mobility has declined, the possibility of success creates unrealistic expectations. This mindset equates normality or poverty with personal failure, intensifying feelings of shame. Furthermore, the stark income inequalities of modern capitalism exacerbate these issues, as comparisons to those more successful highlight one’s perceived inferiority.
The self-esteem crisis sheds light on other societal issues, such as the so-called masculinity crisis. Men often feel like failures, not simply due to evolving gender norms but because societal structures make nearly everyone feel inferior. Male frustration, disengagement, and anger stem from the same competitive self-esteem _______. Similarly, in post-industrial communities, the loss of industries represents more than just economic decline—it erases social roles that once provided individuals with a sense of purpose and success.
Solving the self-esteem crisis requires broadening access to self-worth. Stable employment, decent housing, and healthcare are foundational, but societal standards of success also need redefining. Political philosophers like Michael Walzer and Timo Jütten argue for expanding "standards of contribution," recognizing diverse forms of achievement such as caregiving, art, activism, and community engagement. Reforming education systems to instill these values is crucial. Additionally, acknowledging the role of luck in success, as argued by Michael Sandel in The Tyranny of Merit (2020), can mitigate the relentless competition for self-esteem. By shifting our focus from individualistic competition to collective recognition of diverse contributions, society can alleviate the self-esteem crisis. Emphasizing shared humanity and celebrating varied achievements may help rebuild a sense of purpose and worth in an increasingly unequal world.