Question

Which of the following refer(s) to cross-cutting social differences?

• A. Individuals of different identities having similarities as well.
• B. Individuals of one community crossing over to another and adopting it as their own.
• C. Individuals of different communities unable to live amicably.
• D. When a good mix of differences gives rise to a peaceful community.

Answer 1

Answer: (A), (D)

When a good mix of differences gives rise to a peaceful community.

Cross-cutting differences means that the social groups or individuals having different identities have some similarities as well. It is the opposite of overlapping social differences. A peaceful society exists when multiple identities like language, religion, or economic status are well mixed - it becomes easier to accommodate the differences. It is also difficult to pit one group of people against another when differences are cross-cutting.

One good example is the linguistic social differences in Belgium.