Collectivism: Cultural Concerns

Abstract

Collectivism is a cultural pattern found in most traditional societies, especially in Asia, Latin America, and Africa. It contrasts with individualism, which is a cultural pattern found mostly in Western Europe, North America, Australia, and New Zealand. The article describes some of the characteristics of this cultural pattern, its geographic and demographic distribution, and its antecedents and consequences. It ends with an examination of the implications of globalization and economic development for changes in this cultural pattern, which may involve a weakening of some of its aspects. Especially important are the implications of these changes for well-being and social control. An evaluation of this cultural pattern depends on the criteria that one wishes to maximize.