cultural comparison

is an act that requires nimbleness of thought on the part of the reader, for to point to cultural inclinations is not to suggest unanimity.

In places I refer to 'we Americans' or 'the Japanese' when describing cultural inclinations as if there is unanimity of opinion in each country, and yet I am perfectly aware that variation and disagreements exist. Comparative statements involving whole nations often require such language, and a certain nimbleness of thought on the part of readers is almost a prerequisite' (Rohlen1983:x)

cultural comparison, n.All

cultural comparison