Conformity and Individualism

 Forced conformity is the lifeblood of totalitarian rule. Example: Communist China

I see very little difference between forced conformity and conformity. From a Communist (or any other totalitarian) perspective I suppose that would be seen as a character flaw if you have to force someone to consent to the consensus view.

Individualism is synonymous with freedom. Conformity crushes individuality, constrains it, backs it into a corner, imprisons it. Conformist individualism is an oxymoron.

You can have one or the other. You can't have both.

It's your life, your choice.