Universalism vs. Particularism
People in universalistic cultures believe that general rules, values, and
codes and standards of the society take precedence over particular
needs and claims of friends and relations. In a universalistic society, the
rules apply the same to the whole "universe" of members.
Particularistic cultures see the ideal culture in terms of human
friendship and intimate relationships. The "spirit of the law" is deemed
more important than the "letter of law". Obviously there are rules and
laws in particularistic cultures; but these merely codify how people relate
to each other. Rules are needed – if only to be able to make exceptions
to them for particular cases – but we need to be able to count on our
friends.