From the book: chapter 4, p. 16-17
"Many researchers use the dialectical continuum, universalism and particularism, to describe opposite extremes of cultural patterns. Some cultures strive to establish common, universal sets of standards, laws, and rules that apply consistently to everyone. An extreme example is a rigid bureaucracy in which people follow formal policies and procedures, regardless of the impact on people in unusual situations.
An alternate way of framing the world is a mirror image. Within a culture of particularism, consideration for specific situations takes precedence over universal standards. At the extreme, it deteriorates into favoritism."
© Ann Baker
© 2010 by M. E. Sharp Inc.