Here's a breakdown of the key points:
* Inner-directedness: Individuals in traditional societies were guided by internalized values and goals, often passed down from their families and culture.
* Other-directedness: Individuals in modern society are more focused on pleasing others and conforming to social norms, relying on external sources of validation and guidance.
* The "lonely crowd": This term reflects the sense of isolation and alienation that can result from a society where people are constantly looking for external approval and validation.
Therefore, the best statement summarizing the thesis is:
Modern society has created a "lonely crowd" by shifting from a focus on inner-directedness to a focus on other-directedness, leading to increased conformity and a loss of individuality.