The ‘cure’ of individuality is the ‘disease’. Yes, people must think for themselves and act but it is empathy for all humanity rather than Sartre-ian feelings of isolation and self-reliance that might save us. It is empathy not intelligence that is lacking.

The main message in US media and movies is that you are on your own and you should act as if you are on your own. They tell you, never show weakness because only the strong survive. You have internalized that message well.

The truth is that we are social animals and deeply and thoroughly depend on each other. It is trust and empathy that is most needed, especially in the US. The main problem is feeling like a disconnected society rather than feeling like a powerless individual. The difference is perspective. The cure is to connect and ask others to cooperate in helping everyone rather than to try to be heroes in our own individual stories. Lack of empathy and not knowledge or intelligence is why no one cares for the missing bridge.