Chapter 12, Problem 1MM

Summary Introduction

Introduction: Culture is the set of characteristics that are shared by a group of people. It includes language, social habits, behavior, values, and traditions. It is passed to the next generations through knowledge and learning. Different groups of individuals have different cultures. They are classified as individualist and collectivist.

Answer to Problem 1MM

Correct answer: Individualist cultures tend to value independence; collectivist cultures tend to value interdependence. Therefore, option b. is correct.

Explanation of Solution

Reason for the correct statement:

There are specific values and thoughts that determine if a culture is individualistic and collectivistic. Individualist culture focuses on an individual achievement with a sense of competition. It depends upon the values of freedom and independence. Collectivist culture focuses on the group goals including family and workplace rather than individual level. It depends on group harmony and interdependence.

Hence, option b. is correct.

Reasons for the incorrect statement:

Option a. is given as “interdependence; independence”. Individualist cultures value independence while collectivist cultures value interdependence. Hence, it is a wrong answer.

Option c. is given as “solidarity; uniqueness”. Individualist cultures do not involve solidarity and collectivist cultures do not involve uniqueness. Hence, it is a wrong answer.

Option d. is given as “duty; fulfillment”. Individualists are less focused on the duties towards the group and rather fulfill their interests. Hence, it is a wrong answer.

Hence, options a., c., and d. are incorrect.

Conclusion

Individualist culture values independence and collectivist culture values interdependence.