1. the tendency to view oneself as a member of a larger (family or social) group, rather than as an isolated, independent being.

2. a social or cultural tradition, ideology, or personal outlook that emphasizes the unity of the group or community rather than each person’s individuality. Most Asian, African, and South American societies tend to put more value on collectivism than do Western societies, insofar as they stress cooperation, communalism, constructive interdependence, and conformity to cultural roles and mores. Compare individualism. —collectivist adj.