"Individualistic cultures (i.e. United States/Australia) predominantly socialize their members to view themselves as individuals and to prioritize their personal goals," whereas "collectivistic cultures (Guatemala, South Korea, Taiwan) predominantly socialize their members to view themselves as members of the larger social group and to place the group's concern before their own"(Kenrick, 2007, p.59).
As Americans (and perhaps I should not generalize), we value our freedom, independence, and individual goals. It is truly amazing to be living in a country that allows for such freedom of choice, and freedom to "be all you can be". But let's stop and think for a second: Is it really that great? Does an individualistic culture trump a collectivistic culture? Is it really "that" progressive to thrive for what "we" want as individuals?
It seems that a lot of Americans lose focus of what's truly important, and that is what is best for the people as a whole. I don't agree that a lot of collectivistic cultures don't allow for much freedom of the individual, but their families seem to be more intact, they seem to not lose focus of things that are truly important : our connection with other people. By always wanting to do what we want and what we think is best for us, we could end up hurting others. But what do we care, right? We're the ones getting what we want. Sometimes, it's okay to live in a place where the whole population's needs are placed before one's own. I understand that we must look to see what those needs are (whether they are good or bad), but having that sense of a belonging makes us think before we act.
Tell me what you think, any questions you might have. I didn't include every thought that I have, and so questions are always welcome. I can perhaps explain myself as well. :)
Cheers!!
Kenrick, T. D., Neuberg, L.S. & Cialdini, B.R. (2007) Social Psychology: Goals in Interaction.
Pearson Education, Inc. p. 59.
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
A great start to ProgressiveU.
I can see how a collectivistic culture is more admirable. Working together, less in the way of competition... Haven't we all heard that two heads (or...millions) are better than one? Focusing on the individual (the self) seems too selfish to help anyone but ones self, and even then it seems that collectivism helps individuals advance further.
Thanks for the encouragement, and also for the comment.
I can definitely see the ideal of having freedom and going for your hopes and dreams, but sometimes one's hopes and dreams aren't the best for oneself or society as a whole. Who are we hurting in the process of advancing ourselves?
Hello!
First off, I would just like to say that I have absolutely no formal knowledge base in this topic, only the idea as you have presented it. I think I get the general jist, though.
I think an ideal society would embrace both the individual and the community. Without the community, the individual suffers. Without the individuals, there is no community. If one chooses to participate in this thing we label society, he or she must assume the commitment and sacrifice as well as the benefit to the individual.
I completely agree with you. The only part that I was downing about individualistic societies is that some place so much emphasis on the individual that it hurts society (because all we can think about is ourselves). But the negative about a collective society, is that if the society is too focused on the collectivism, then new ideas might get shut down too quick without being heard (ideas that could in fact help the community as a whole). :) But yes, over all I agree with you.