Final answer:
An independent member of society may be exemplified by someone who responsibly pays taxes, balancing personal freedom with civic duties. This responsible behavior contributes to social infrastructure while also exhibiting personal independence.
Step-by-step explanation:
An example of being an independent member of society is a person who earns an income and pays taxes without evasion. This individual fulfills their civic responsibilities while exercising personal liberties. They contribute to society by funding communal resources and services, demonstrating the balance between personal independence and social responsibility. Paying taxes is a prime example because it reflects an individual's role in supporting the infrastructure and welfare systems pivotal for the functioning of the community.
Individual choices, such as smoking tobacco or using earnings, affect both personal freedom and communal well-being. Societies negotiate the tradeoff between individualism and the common good, sometimes leading to governmental regulations to safeguard public health and welfare. Independent individuals make conscious choices, weighing their personal liberties against their civic responsibilities.