Final answer:
Independent-living centers champion the principles of individualism, emphasizing self-reliance, autonomy, and personal growth, which align with broader cultural patterns of individualism in the United States.
Step-by-step explanation:
Independent-living centers espoused the principles of individualism. Individualism, as a philosophy, champions the value and agency of an individual, stressing self-reliance and autonomy. It encourages individuals to pursue personal goals and desires without undue interference from societal norms or governmental institutions. Movements such as liberalism, existentialism, and anarchism emphasize the importance of the individual as the fundamental unit of analysis.
These centers created an environment that nurtures a person's sense of purpose, belonging, and responsibility, with activities that reinforce personal growth and community involvement. Communal living styles, however, were not emphasized in these environments—instead, an independent lifestyle was fostered, allowing individuals the space to develop their own identities separate from prevailing traditions or societal pressures.
This philosophy is mirrored in various aspects of American life, from the preference for independent farming over communal agriculture to the independent woman on college campuses asserting her autonomy. Independent-living centers, therefore, reflect a broader cultural and historical pattern of individualism found within the United States.