Critique

Abstract

Triandis attacks the problem with his customary zest and vigor, suggesting where we should blast an outlet through the rocks confining social psychology. Actually the image is perhaps not altogether reassuring; for if there is such a breakthrough social psychology, while ceasing to go around in circles, will find itself all at sea. This would mean being utterly diluted and lacking any clear identity. This is a fairly serious joke, because while I certainly agree with the general direction toward more cross-cultural work, the particular proposals put forward appear to have some dangers, or at least considerable disadvantages. This being a discussion paper, it is inevitable that the burden of it will be concerned with aspects on which I disagree. Hence I would like to record at the outset my appreciation of the breadth and depth of Triandis’s ideas, and the skill with which he has presented them.