Rochelle Jean I.

Ochea BSN 1Y2 – T7A

UNDERSTANDING SELF 111
In this assignment, you will explore the concepts of individualism, collectivism, and

multidimensional identity through a personal and cross-cultural lens. The goal is to gain

a deeper understanding of how cultural values and perspectives shape our sense of self

and our relationships with others.

A REFLECTIVE JOURNEY

An individual’s values, beliefs, and identity are significantly influenced by cultural

upbringing I explore and share my reflective journey, and I will be reminiscing my own

experiences and see how they shaped me today as a person.

I grew up in a community that held the importance of unity. I am taught that unity,

cooperation, and mutual dependency are key principles to a well-nourished community

and family. For example, most decisions in my community should go through

consultation among the members of the community so that outcomes would favor the

larger society. In my family also, when it comes to decision-making, my parents always

consult each other whenever there is something that needs an immediate decision and

after that consult us if we will agree or be comfortable with that decision.

In our family, we share collectivist values. In this regard, some concepts such as loyalty,

harmony, and respect for other people were deeply ingrained in us. In addition, my

parents always remind us to put other's well-being first before us. My parents also

reminded us siblings to help each other to thrive and survive.

This cultural upbringing has a deep impact on who I am as a person. Instead of thinking

about myself as an individual, I rather think as if I am part of a bigger community. This

influences the decision-making I make every day. I always ensure that I always choose a

decision that will benefit a larger group of people rather than my gains.

My identity has different components and some intersect at some point. For example,

there are instances where I find myself conflicted between honoring my cultural identity

and adapting to the expectations of different contexts. At some point, there are

circumstances where I have to prioritize individual goals over the collective goals of

everyone.

In conclusion, reflecting on my cultural upbringing and personal identity has been

both enlightening and challenging. Enlightening in a way that helps me remind myself of

who I am because there are circumstances where I forget about it. Challenging in a way

that I have to think deeply and go through a lot of dilemmas internally. However, it has

allowed me to recognize the profound impact of culture on shaping who I am today. By

embracing these complexities, I learned to slowly grow and strive to evolve as a person.
Part 2: Cross-Cultural Comparison Next, research and compare the cultural

values and perspectives related to individualism and collectivism in an

Eastern and a Western society of your choice. Consider the following aspects:

CROSS-CULTURAL COMPARISON: JAPAN AND SOUTH AMERICA

Societies are profoundly shaped by cultural values, which have an impact on

interpersonal interactions, societal institutions, and individual behaviors. This essay

compares and contrasts the cultures of South America and Japan, two places with very

different views on individualism and collectivism. We seek to learn more about how these

cultural perspectives impact ideas of self, personal identity, relationships, and the

comprehension of multidimensional identity and intersectionality by investigating

prevailing values, beliefs, and societal behaviors.

Mainstream Cultural Beliefs and Values:

Japan: Harmony, cooperation, and interdependence are highly prized in Japan's

collectivistic culture, which is commonly used to characterize the country. Throughout

many facets of Japanese society, the idea of "Wa" (harmony) emphasizes the value of

preserving social cohesiveness and averting conflict. Individual preferences are

frequently subordinated to group identification, as people are conditioned to place the

needs of the collective—be it the family, workplace, or community—above their own.

South America: Individualistic and collectivistic inclinations coexist in South

American society, which differ throughout nations and regions. Nonetheless, collectivism

is frequently given more weight, with close-knit family structures and shared ideals
predominating. Relationships are crucial, and people should put their families' and

communities' needs ahead of their own.

Developing Self- and Relationship-Concepts:

In Japan, a person's function in the group and their connections to others define

their sense of self, which is frequently relational. Social identities like nationality, family,

and company are strongly linked to one's personal identity. Relationships are defined by

mutual obligations and hierarchy, with a focus on preserving peace and averting conflict.

In South America, kinship networks and communities play a significant role in

shaping an individual's sense of self, and kinship networks and communities also provide

a sense of belonging. Warmth, emotional expressiveness, reciprocity, and a focus on

loyalty and support within social networks are the hallmarks of relationships.

Education Systems: Group learning and collaboration are prioritized in Japanese

education, with a focus on group accomplishment rather than individual success. While

individual accomplishment may be given more weight in South American education,

community and familial values continue to have a big influence on students' goals and

experiences in the classroom.

Work Environments: Japanese workplaces are known for their long hours,

emphasis on teamwork, and intense sense of loyalty and dedication to the firm.

Workplaces in South America could differ, but establishing trusting bonds with coworkers

and encouraging a sense of camaraderie are frequently prioritized.

Comprehending Intersectionality and Multidimensional Identity:

 The ideas of intersectionality and multidimensional identity are understood in the

framework of larger cultural norms and socioeconomic systems in both South America

and Japan. Different social identities, such gender, race, religion, and occupation, may be

acknowledged, but they are frequently entwined with collective identities that are created

by social norms and cultural values.

In summary:

We have learned more about the intricate interactions between individualism and

collectivism in South America and Japan thanks to this cross-cultural comparison. Even

while every culture has its own distinctive cultural norms and values, they always

emphasize the value of close bonds between people, community, and the well-being of the

whole. In an increasingly interconnected world, we may promote more cross-cultural

understanding and collaboration by appreciating the diversity of human experience

through an awareness of diverse cultural perspectives.

Part 3: Analysis and Reflection Based on your research and personal

reflection, analyze the similarities and differences between the Eastern and

Western perspectives on individualism, collectivism, and multidimensional

identity. Consider the following questions:

ANALYSIS AND REFLECTION

A useful way to understand the differences in cultural views on individualism,

collectivism, and multidimensional identity is to compare South America and Japan.

Through analyzing the advantages, disadvantages, and possible compromises of various

viewpoints, we can enhance our comprehension of how cultural norms influence identity

and social interactions.

Advantages and Drawbacks:

Individualism: The focus placed by Western nations, such as those in South America, on

the autonomy and accomplishment of the individual can encourage creativity, personal

development, and a sense of agency. On the other hand, overly individualistic behavior

can result in social disintegration, loneliness, and a lack of group accountability.

Collectivism: Eastern cultures, such as Japan, foster social cohesion, mutual

assistance, and interdependence through emphasizing communal harmony and

collaboration. It might, however, also discourage personal ambitions, originality, and

expression.

Managing Several Personas:

People in both cultures have to manage a variety of identities formed by overlapping

societal elements like gender, ethnicity, religion, and occupation. In South America,

where individuality and collectivism coexist, people may draw on their connections to the

community and family while pursuing their own objectives. In Japan, social cohesion is

maintained by striking a balance between individual goals and society expectations as

well as group harmony.

The complementary nature of collectivism and individualism

Even though they may appear to be at odds, individualism and collectivism can be

beneficial to societies and people's lives. For example, within collectivist frameworks,

cultivating a sense of individual agency can enable people to make significant

contributions to their communities. In a similar vein, societal ideals of harmony and

collaboration can give people pursuing their own objectives a sense of support and

belonging.

Insights and Lesson

Examining these diverse cultural viewpoints on identity brings to light the complexity and

diversity of the human condition. Through recognizing the multiplicity of cultural beliefs

and customs, people can develop increased capacity for empathy, comprehension, and

respect for the viewpoints of others. Furthermore, understanding how individuality and

collectivism interact can encourage communities to develop well-rounded policies that

put the rights of the individual as well as the welfare of the group first.

In conclusion, the South American and Japanese comparison sheds light on the

complex nature of cultural values and how they affect the development of identity and
interpersonal relationships. People and cultures can work toward inclusive and peaceful

cohabitation by critically analyzing various viewpoints, accepting the diversity of human

experiences while fostering common ideals of cooperation, respect, and empathy.