Any of a set of contrasting pairs of characteristics said to be associated with various kinds of social interaction: affectivity – affective neutrality; self-orientation – collectivity-orientation; universalism – particularism; ascription – achievement; and specificity – diffusity.
Origin
Coined by Talcott Parsons (1902–1979), American sociologist.
Modern English dictionary
Explore and search massive catalog of over 900,000 word meanings.
Word of the Day
Get a curated memorable word every day.
Challenge yourself
Level up your vocabulary by setting personal goals.