Final answer:
Literature provides varied perspectives on the role of individuals in society, emphasizing themes like self-improvement, societal constraints, and the potential for social justice. The collective efforts of individuals can reshape societal structures, presenting a dynamic interaction between the individual and the collective social fabric.
Step-by-step explanation:
Perhaps the best explanation of the individual's role in society comes from diverse viewpoints presented in literature, as seen through the works of authors like Samuel Smiles, Reverend Osborne Jay, and those depicted in American literature. These texts delve into the complexities of social issues, individual responsibility, and societal roles, presenting various perspectives on how individuals contribute to and influence society.
One perspective highlights the importance of self-improvement and discipline as key to helping the poor elevate their status. In contrast, Reverend Osborne Jay, working in a poor London neighborhood, came to believe that systemic factors rendered self-help insufficient for substantial change. This echoes with the notion that individuals cannot fully transcend societal constraints without broader social reforms.
Another important aspect discussed in literature is the concept of social justice and individuals awakening to their capacity for effecting change within society. The diverse views shared in these texts suggest that individuals are not just shaped by their societal roles but also have the potential to reshape society through their actions, informed by their own sufferings and joys.