Difference between relatively dependent and relatively independent societies

Richard Nisbett discusses the concept of “living together versus going it alone” in chapter 3 of his book, The Geography of Thought. In page 61, he specifically looks at the distinction between the terms “relatively independent” and “relatively interdependent” societies. He states four angles through which the differences between the two societies can be examined:
Insistence on freedom of individual action vs. a preference for collective action
The desire for individual distinctiveness vs. a preference for blending harmoniously with the group
A preference for egalitarianism and achieved status vs. acceptance of hierarchy and ascribed status
A belief that the rules governing proper behavior should be universal vs. a preference for particularistic approaches that take into account the context and the nature of the relationships involved
To explain the “insistence on freedom of individual action vs. a preference for collective action” dimension, Nisbett uses a survey done on a group of managers from different Asian and Western countries. The managers are asked to state their preferred jobs, given two types: one in which “individual and personal initiative is encouraged” and another in which “individual achievements are not recognized; all work together." Most managers from Western countries (more than 90%) choose the first job type, while most from Asian countries choose the second job type. Thus, all the four dimensions above represent opposing characteristics of the two types of societies—independent and interdependent. While independent societies display an interest in individual performance and uniqueness, hold a preference for “achieved status” and universal rules, and are generally individualistic, interdependent societies have an interest in “collective action” or group activities, prefer the “ascribed status,” and are generally family-oriented. He posits that most Western countries are relatively independent societies while their Asian counterparts are majorly interdependent societies.