:For judgements of value about collectivism and individualism, see individualism and collectivism. This article regards how 'collectivist' and 'individualist' are used descriptively in anthropology and cultural psychology.
Cultures are typically divided into two categories: collectivist and individualist. Individualist cultures, such as those of the United States, emphasize personal achievement at the expense of group goals, resulting in a strong sense of competition. Collectivist cultures, such as those of China, Korea, and Guam, emphasize family and work group goals. Western Europe has a high regard for competitiveness, but group goals (strengthening the welfare state) are very popular as well. Most Western Europeans believe that only the state can guarantee good treatment of disabled and old people and ensure equal chances for all youth to make a career.

Collectivism and individualism deeply pervade cultures. People simply take their culture's stance for granted. In the U.S., everything from 'self-serve' buffet tables to corporate structure to cowboy movies reflect the deeply ingrained individualism.

Both collectivist and individualist cultures have their failings. People in individualist cultures are susceptible to loneliness, and people in collectivist cultures can have a strong fear of rejection.

Individualism is increasing in developing countries, which implies that a connection can be made between wealth and individualism.

Traits of Collectivism

"We" not "me" orientation.

Each person is encouraged to conform to society, to do what is best for the group and to not openly express opinions or beliefs that go against it.

Group, family or rights for the common good are seen as more important than the rights of individuals.

Rules promote stability, order, obedience.

Strong family values

Fitting in or conforming to group or society is required.

Distinctions made between in-group and out-group.

More ingroups to choose from, less attachment to one specific ingroup

Working with others and cooperating is the norm. Refusal to cooperate and wanting to be independent or stand out is seen as shameful. Everyone must rely on others for support.

Traits of Individualism

"I" identity.

Promotes individual goals, initiative and achievement.

Achievement of personal goals

Each person is encouraged to stand out, be unique and express themselves.

Individual rights seen as most important. Rules attempt to impede independence, choices and freedom of speech.

Fitting in and conforming to group norms is unnecessary or even discouraged.

Less distinction between in-group and out-group.

Relying or being dependent on others is seen as shameful. People are encouraged to do things on their own, to rely on themselves.

Examples of Countries with Generally Collectivistic Cultures

Argentina

Brazil

China

Egypt

Guam

Greece

India

Korea

Mexico

Saudi Arabia

Taiwan

Puerto Rico

Vietnam

Examples of Countries with Generally Individualistic Cultures

Australia

Canada

France

Ireland

Italy

New Zealand

United Kingdom

United States

Personality Types

The stereotype of a 'good person' in collectivist cultures is trustworthy, honest, generous, and sensitive, all characteristics that are helpful to people working in groups. In contrast, a 'good person' in individualist cultures is more assertive and strong, characteristics helpful for competing.

The idea of the 'artistic type' or 'bohemian' is not usually found in collectivist cultures. However, collectivist cultures usually have a 'community man' concept not present in individualist cultures.

Collectivism and individualism in Chinese culture

In Chinese society, collectivism has a long tradition based on Confucianism, where being a 'community man' (qúntǐ de fènzǐ) (群体的分子) or someone with a 'social personality' (shèhuì de réngé) (社会的人格) is valued. Additionally, there is the shìgu (世故) personality type, who is worldly and committed to family.

Individualist thinking in China was formed by Lao Zi and Taoism. He taught that individual happiness is the basis of a good society and saw the state, with its "laws and regulations more numerous than the hairs of an ox," as the persistent oppressor of the individual, "more to be feared than fierce tigers." He was an opponent of taxation and war, and his students and the tradition that followed him were consistently individualistic.

See also

Power distance

Uncertainty avoidance

Masculinity vs femininity

Western culture

Asian values

Individualism

Collectivism

Face