Culture in Our Time of Crisis

"The greatness of a community is most accurately measured 
by the compassionate actions of its members.."

— Coretta Scott King

How we behave in times of crisis reveals much about who we are. From this hope springs, hope that we can continue to nurture the most generous parts of our nature. When these generous acts are performed together, as a community, they become culture.  

Understanding Culture

Culture is based on assumptions that inform the identification and prioritization of values. These values are interpreted to form beliefs, which in turn are reflected in behaviors. At the base of this schema are cultural assumptions, which do not ascribe right or wrong, good or bad. Rather than judge, they serve as a portal through which a culture understands the world.

A cultural assumption is an unconscious belief or expectation shared by members of a culture, influencing how they perceive and interpret the world, often without realizing it. These assumptions encompass beliefs about the nature of human beings, time, and humanity's relationship to nature.

Each cultural assumption exists along a continuum. For example, the cultural assumption about time can range from linear and finite to nonlinear and infinite:

Individualism and Collectivism: A Key Cultural Difference

The United States is particularly individualistic. According to the 7 Dimensions of Culture model by Fons Trompenaars and Charles Hampden-Turner, individualism emphasizes individual rights, personal autonomy, and self-expression, whereas collectivism emphasizes the welfare of the group and collective responsibility.

Research shows that the United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom are among the most individualistic cultures, while Japan, South Korea, and Venezuela lean toward the collectivist end of the spectrum.

Here are five examples illustrating these differences:

1. Emphasis on Personal Achievement
   • In the U.S., personal success and individual accomplishment are celebrated. The "American Dream" promotes the idea that anyone can achieve success through hard work and determination. Embedded language like "Pull yourself up by your bootstraps" is commonplace.
   • In collectivist cultures, personal achievements are viewed within the context of group success. For instance, a student in Japan might be praised for how their accomplishments elevate the reputation of their family or school.
2. Independent Decision-Making
   • In the U.S., individuals are encouraged to think critically and make decisions independently, taking responsibility for their choices.
   • In collectivist cultures, decision-making often involves consultation with family or community leaders. For example, major life decisions in India or China may be made collaboratively to ensure alignment with group values.
3. Personal Freedom and Autonomy
   • American culture highly values personal freedoms, such as the right to express opinions and pursue individual goals. Expressions like "Be all you can be" or "Follow your dreams" reflect these values. 
   • In collectivist cultures, personal freedom is balanced with the need for social harmony. Actions that disrupt group dynamics may be discouraged.
4. Self-Promotion and Individual Identity
   • In the U.S., self-promotion and unique identity are celebrated. Social media often amplifies this focus on personal achievement.
   • In collectivist cultures, humility is valued, and self-promotion may be seen as inappropriate. Social media content often reflects group activities or collective milestones.
5. Merit and Recognition
   • In individualistic cultures, merit is tied to individual abilities and accomplishments. Thus, meritocracy is one of the most touted, and contested, topics across educational institutions and workforces. 
   • In collectivist cultures, merit is assessed within the context of how it benefits the group. Professional advancement often considers collaboration, team contribution and group performance, and respect for hierarchy.

Culture in Crisis: The Best of Us

Cultural assumptions about individualism and collectivism are particularly evident during crises. When disasters strike, such as the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles, cultural values come to the forefront.

The wildfires in Los Angeles destroyed homes, businesses, and lives, but they also showcased the resilience and humanity of U.S. culture. Despite the strong emphasis on individualism, many Americans came together to help one another. This response reflects the cultural flexibility of human beings. In times of need, even cultures that emphasize personal autonomy can unite for the common good.

These moments highlight that while culture influences us, it does not define us. In crises, empathy and compassion often transcend cultural boundaries. People overcome divides, reaching out to help others, embodying a shared human response rooted in solidarity.

As we reflect on the struggles in Los Angeles and other areas of hardship, we are reminded that culture is not just about identity. It’s about how we come together in times of crisis to support one another. This shared humanity offers hope that we can rise above cultural differences in service of the greater good.

On behalf of the DeEtta Jones and Associates and CultureRoad Teams, our hearts and prayers go to people, families, rescue workers and community helpers who are navigating the fires and aftermath. 

Sincerely,