It seems like modernism is a double - edged sword.

While modernism allows the individual to thrive and share innovations that ultimately benefit society (e.g. cars and toilets) it only does so if people are motivated to help themselves first.

Otherwise, it turns into a free for all where anything goes and there are no morals sustaining altruistic behavior if we are largely taught that selfishness is the reason why tou should be altruistic.