Moving Cultures: The Perilous Problems of Cultural Dichotomies in a Globalizing Society

Hubert J. M. Hermans  & Harry J. G. Kempen  

American Psychologist, 1998, 53, 1111-1120

Abstract

The accelerating process of globalization and the increasing interconnections between cultures involve an unprecedented challenge to contemporary psychology. In apparent contrast to these trends, academic mainstream conceptions continue to work in a tradition of cultural dichotomies (e.g., individualistic vs. collectivistic, independent vs. interdependent), reflecting a classificatory approach to culture and self. Three developments are presented which challenge this approach (a) cultural connections leading to hybridization; (b) the emergence of a heterogeneous global system; and (c) the increasing cultural complexity. Elaborating on these challenges, a basic assumption of cross-cultural psychology is questioned: culture as geographically localized. Finally, three themes are described as examples of an alternative approach: a focus on the contact zones of cultures rather than on their center, the complexities of self and identity, and the experience of uncertainty.

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Back to: Homepage Hubert J.M. Hermans Main Publications

Moving Cultures: The Perilous Problems of Cultural Dichotomies in a Globalizing Society

Hubert J. M. Hermans  & Harry J. G. Kempen  

American Psychologist, 1998, 53, 1111-1120

Abstract

The accelerating process of globalization and the increasing interconnections between cultures involve an unprecedented challenge to contemporary psychology. In apparent contrast to these trends, academic mainstream conceptions continue to work in a tradition of cultural dichotomies (e.g., individualistic vs. collectivistic, independent vs. interdependent), reflecting a classificatory approach to culture and self. Three developments are presented which challenge this approach (a) cultural connections leading to hybridization; (b) the emergence of a heterogeneous global system; and (c) the increasing cultural complexity. Elaborating on these challenges, a basic assumption of cross-cultural psychology is questioned: culture as geographically localized. Finally, three themes are described as examples of an alternative approach: a focus on the contact zones of cultures rather than on their center, the complexities of self and identity, and the experience of uncertainty.

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Back to: Homepage Hubert J.M. Hermans Main Publications