Final answer:
Universalists believe in underlying similarities across cultures, known as cultural universals, and reject ranked comparisons of cultures. They advocate for a holistic view that appreciates both common human experiences and cultural diversity.
Step-by-step explanation:
Universalists typically believe in the existence of certain beliefs, practices, or norms that are common across all cultures, regardless of their historical or geographical context. This notion is in contrast to the idea of cultural relativism, which recognizes the unique elements and diversity between cultures. Universalists are likely to reject comparisons across cultures that imply one culture is more evolved or superior to another, instead emphasizing shared human experiences and universal patterns or traits (cultural universals).
The belief in universalism posits that despite the apparent differences in the superficial aspects of cultures, such as language, dress, or rituals, there are underlying similarities that unite human cultures. For example, while family structures may differ greatly from one culture to another, the concept of family itself is a universal aspect across societies. The approach taken by universalists encourages an understanding of cultures through a lens that respects these shared human conditions, while appreciating the diversity of cultural expressions.
Consequently, universalists would not endorse comparative unilineal models that rank cultures based on an assumed evolutionary stage but would advocate for a more holistic view that underscores commonalities and shared human experiences across different cultures.