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Worldviews about the self in relation to others differs across and within cultures.[29] Western cultures place particular importance on independence and the expression of one's own attributes[30] (i.e. the self is more important than the group). Asian cultures, however, favor an interdependent view of the self: [29] interpersonal relationships are more important than one’s individual accomplishments, and individuals experience a sense of oneness with the group.[29] Such "identity fusion" can have positive and negative consequences.[29] Identity fusion can give people the sense that their existence is meaningful (e.g. Japanese nuclear plant workers expose themselves to radiation to help fix the plant after a tsunami); and this type of mindset is associated with a high quality of life.[29] On the other hand, such strong interdependence can lead to catastrophic events such as acts of terrorism.[29] A small study done in Israel showed that the divide between independent and interdependent self-concepts exists within cultures as well. Mid-level merchants in an urban community were compared to those in a kibbutz (collective community). The collectivist merchants valued the interdependent self more that the urban ones, who held more value to independent traits. The individualists described themselves largely in terms of personal traits, while collectivists used more hobbies and preferences. When the individualists did give interdependent responses, most responses were focused on work or school; individualist responses from interdependents focused most on residence.[31] |
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