Final answer:
Cultural determinism is the view that culture strongly influences or determines individual behavior, also conveyed by the phrase 'The culture made me do it.' However, this view is often debated due to it minimizing individual agency and overlooking the complex interactions between culture and individual choices.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that best describes cultural determinism is 'The culture made me do it.' Cultural determinism is the belief that the culture into which people are born shapes their beliefs, behaviors, and values to such an extent that their actions are dictated by this culture. This concept tends to downplay individual agency, emphasizing that our thinking and actions are predominantly influenced by cultural norms rather than individual choices or personal preferences.
While culture undoubtedly has a significant influence on motivation and behavior, it's a contested idea whether culture completely determines individual behavior. Critics argue this approach overlooks the complexity and agency of individuals, suggesting that while cultural factors are influential, they do not totally constrain individual action.
On the other hand, cultural relativism acknowledges the diversity of cultures and that different societies have different norms and values, while avoiding the deterministic viewpoint. It suggests a respect for other cultures' norms without claiming that culture is the sole driving force behind an individual's behavior.