Interdependent versus Collectivistic

    Last week we concluded of our two hour-active class with a discussion about the class’ initial thoughts on Asian culture. Professor Tanglao-Aguas instructed the group to share whatever came to mind: a stereotype, a personal experience, or even something learned in academics. My first thought was based on the difference that Western cultures’ place on the individual with the emphasis Asian cultures put on their community. From one of my international business course, I recalled that we studied this as the comparison of interdependent versus collectivistic cultures. This basic difference is present in any of the areas we have studied in our Asian Theaters course: daily life, religious traditions, and even in theater. I thought it would be interesting to reflect on the differences I have noticed in the purpose of theater between Western and Asian culture, as it pertains to this the interdependent and collectivistic cultures.
    From my experiences of Western theater, the event is a opportunity for people to dress up, gather with friends and family, and enjoy a night of entertainment. This entertainment can come from the music, choreography of movement, exposure to a new art form, or simply being in a social setting with good company. That said, all these factors are focused on benefiting the individual and their immediate environment. Furthermore, if one looks at the a common reason for individuals to participate in the performance, many choose to participate because it is a way for them to express themselves and their emotions. Again, this motive is focused on the benefit and mission of the individual, rather than the community.
    Through our studies in this class, theater seems to have a different purpose for Asian societies; it is a manner in which to benefit the community. For example, participating and watching a performances of the Ramayana can teach younger members appropriate behaviors within their community. In many instances Rama chooses to act for the good of his people, even if it means sacrificing important parts of his life. Specifically we see this when he chooses to release his wife, Sita because the kingdom does not trust her and could thus lose respect for Rama. This is not to say that in western cultures one cannot certainly appreciate or learn from these lessons; however, many Asian cultures use these stories and plays to communicate what is expected of their society and how they can be good community members.
    Living in a interdependent culture is all I have ever experienced; however, as I study cultures that function on a collective basis, there appears to be a lack in many of the aspects of my culture. It may be that America’s existence is only a fraction of Asian countries’ existence, or that it relates to when and on what account the country was founded. Regardless, there is a distinct value in living a collectivistic lifestyle. It seems to provide a more concrete opportunity to inner-peace and harmony; aspects I believe essential to living a meaningful and joyous life.