Understanding American Cultural Identity

This chapter explores the cultural factors that shape American identity, drawing insights from a cross-cultural psychologist's personal experiences and academic work. It discusses historical events, including the Gulf War, that highlight cultural misunderstandings and the impact of American individualism on various societal aspects. The chapter also contrasts 'tight' and 'loose' cultural norms globally, pointing out the unique traits of U.S. culture and its historical evolution in response to external threats.