Collectivism
Collectivism is a philosophy where people are loyal to their group or collectives which care for them. It generally reflects the ability of the people to achieve their collective goals by working together. Through collectivism, people can pursue the general welfare and group interests to a greater degree (Hofstede & Bond, 1984; Kuo, 2013). People can create groups, organizations and societies to achieve their collective goals and objectives through cooperation among members. The members of the collectives are then encouraged to conform to the group and they discourage individuals from dissenting and standing out (Gorodnichenko & Roland, 2012). The members’ attitude would lead to stronger loyalty and patronage of their collective society. Cross cultural studies suggest that people with stronger collectivist level would combine efforts, knowledge and skills that they need in order to perform their tasks and to achieve their goals (Bouncken, et al., 2007).
In a collectivist organization, the members make decisions through their social bond that adopts the principles equality and accountability (Gelfand, 2004). They would emphasize loyalty to the group, interdependence, group decisions instead of being dominated by an individual, personal identity with the group, and concern for their fellow members (Baron & Byrne, 1997). The members would value collective goals and members are rewarded for their collective achievements (Chatman & Barsade, 1995). Their relationship is becoming stronger and the individual would choose to stay in the collective even if it demands for service or financial contribution (Triandis, et al., 1988).
Collectivism has been applied as an economic, social and political philosophical construct that gives greater value to a group or to the people rather than to individuals or few powerful individuals. It is a way of life which encourages groups to work cohesively in attaining the ‘common good’ than working individually to meet their ends.
The economic thoughts of collectivism. Collectivism in the economic context gives more importance on the welfare and interest of the collective than the welfare and interest of the few or any individual. It is an outlook where economic development can be achieved by giving priority to collective goals over individuals by emphasizing cohesion within the groups. Collectivism postulates that individuals must be committed to the collective action and thoughts of collectivism in order to attain the common good. Table 1 presents the summary of related literatures to the economic thoughts of collectivism.
Table 1. Economic Thoughts of Collectivism