III. MINIMIZATION OF DIFFERENCE
The predominant experience of Minimization is that of having “arrived” at intercultural sensitivity. The polarized experience of Defense has given way to a recognition of the common humanity of all people regardless of culture (“We are the world”). The familiar cultural worldview is protected by believing that deep down we are all alike, either
physically/psychologically or spiritually/philosophically. This assumption of similarity is then invoked to avoid recognizing one’s own cultural patterns, understanding others, and eventually making necessary adaptations. The assumed commonality with others is typically defined in ethnocentric terms: since everyone is essentially like us, it is sufficient in cross-cultural situations to “just be yourself.”