ethics and morality across cultures
Differences in morals and ethics can lead to a great deal of cross cultural conflict and miscommunication. How a culture defines its morals and ethics can be described as either Universalist or Particularist. Which cultures hold each viewpoint, and how do these differing views affect workplace relationships?
Particularist or Universalist?
Latin, African, and Asian cultures are Particularist. English- and German-speaking countries are Universalist. Basically, the Universalist follows rules. The Particularist is situational. For the Universalist, all laws apply to all people and morals do not waiver. The rules are the rules and they apply equally to everyone. No one is above the law (in theory anyway).
Particularists, on the other hand, see things as situational. They know that there are many truths, and that there are multiple perspectives on any situation. How you view an event depends on your role in it, who else is involved, and the context. Hard and fast rules don’t make sense to the Particularist. How can you apply the same rules to all situations? Particularists also spend more time building relationships and value personal obligation more than Universalists, who often underestimate or ignore their importance.
Contracts are legal and binding for the Universalist, whereas for the Particularist contracts may be amended or adjusted if the situation or context changes. American companies doing business in China frequently face this cross cultural impasse, where the American believes a deal is a deal. The Chinese, on the other hand, see agreements changing if the situation changes. It is the trustworthy person who is known to honor the changing circumstances. For the Universalist, it is the complete opposite. A trustworthy person keeps his word.
When you are interacting with a Universalist or Particularist you can expect certain communication patterns. By recognizing them, you can adapt your own style to better communicate across cultures. Always think: What is the most effective communication style for interacting in this culture? What is the best way to get my message across? What interactional skills do I need to apply?
These are typical communication styles of each.
Universalists
• Speak in absolutes
• Prefer direct communication with clear details of agreement.
• Get down to business attitude
• Particularists may find their behavior rude and abrupt
Particularists
• Speak vaguely
• Prefer indirect communication
• Often digress or go off topic
• Avoid absolutes
