Final answer:
Studies by Shalom Schwartz found that values such as family importance, communal welfare, and respect are shared across most cultures, although their expressions can vary. Cultural universals like family structure and social ceremonies are common globally, with differences in their execution across societies.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to the studies conducted by Shalom Schwartz and his colleagues, which examined cultural values across many different nations, certain values are found to be universally shared and hold similar meanings in most cultures. These shared values represent a common understanding of what is significant and important in human society. However, it is important to note that while some values are universal, the expression of these values can differ significantly across cultures. For instance, values such as the importance of family, communal welfare, and respect for others are prevalent globally, but the specific practices associated with these values may vary. An example given highlights that in some cultures, it is common for men to hold hands as a symbol of friendship, while in others, it might be interpreted as a romantic gesture. This underscores the cultural specificity in expressing universally held values. Cultural universals also signify common elements across cultures, such as the family unit, funeral rites, and ceremonies like weddings and celebrations of births, although their execution may differ remarkably between cultures.