et ainsi.

[and so.]

I was thinking earlier today, if you've ever read the book, website or done the quizzes of "stuff white people like" (http://stuffwhitepeoplelike.com/) you'll notice that they have the stereotypical attitudes, opinions and joys that 'alternative' 'indie' 'non-conformist' and in many classes 'more cultural' people have. This therefore led me to the question, how long ago were these things, for lack of a better term 'different'. Because, in all honesty, a quick glance through most of the subjects on the list, and you'll notice the "unique tastes of millions".
So, who on earth, (or possibly mercury), decided that these tastes were so unique? In complete and utter honesty, it's harder to find someone who does not like most of the things on this list. I certainly like most of them, and I know that most of my friends/acquaintances/family members do.

Which leads me to my main point, what is the point of this obsession we have with being unique? Don't take that the wrong way, yes, it is definitely wonderful to feel special every once in a while, but I know dozens of people, who, in all seriousness, become completely and utterly offended when I so much as mention that anyone else may have that shirt/idea/heard of that band.

Can anyone answer? Why do we strive for something so, egotistical? I'm not saying I'm perfect here, I'm most certainly guilty of being disappointed that my friends had known a band or thought of some new way that corporations/governments/rich people were being obnoxious/narcissistic/controlling. But, not very often, and most certainly not to the extent of other people.

My only real conclusion is that, in this society (maybe I should say my society, chances are you may not live where I do), we are raised under the ideals that we need to be special and unique and do things no one else has before. Whatever is wrong with mediocrity? I certainly see nothing wrong with it. Yet it seems people can not cope with the idea that they will not be brilliant in their lifetimes. I am quite content, though I hope to become successful and do something wonderful with my life, to live a life of mediocrity and know that my greatest feat will in all likelihoods be some form of successful project at my dead end job, or writing something that I particularly enjoy reading.
(But then, perhaps I am simply insane.)

[p.s. before anyone gets offended, please note, "stuff white people like" is meant to be a comedy, and I do not mean to offend anyone by referencing it]