In spite of the fact that everyone wants to be unique we all tend to follow majority rules (call it fashion, power or whatever). The thing is we all quicly learn to follow up those: it can be because of our parents, or because of our mates, or because of the media. But, from too young an age, we learn to stick to them as a way of surviving. Of course the majority in place isn't always the prevalent one in society, but then we learn to cope with that one: the whole thing is in our best interest.
In time we all internalise those rules, mabe due to the fact that when you're in need majority is the strongest power. So we quicly learn to submit our natural feelings to the thoughts of the majority (in place or not). Later on answers come out "naturallly". People quickly dismiss others for not sticking to the right way. Of course, you also learn to take "tolerance" into account. You respect others, at least in a formal way, But in the end your environment makes it clear what the important thing is.
Unfortunately, there are many side effects to this behavior. Minority people can, for instance, take advantage of the fact that they belong to a not so bad minority. So they collaborate in fighting the rest (we're not the worst, this is how they can possibly feel). Other people can develop hate against common standards, just because they're common (they didn't hate them when they were younger though). Finally, people in minority can reach power and establish a "dictatorship", setting up new trends, fashion etc. Other people are ok with the fact they're alternative, but still they need support for their ides, which usually comes from a castaway majority.
Maybe the wholw peoblem is about everyone being in need (including everyone belonging to the majority in place) and how we can help each other without being abusive.
Manuel.
