Same Situation, Far Apart: Scientists at Work Most scientists are open-minded and conscientious (two of the Big Five personality traits), as both of these women are. Culture and social context are crucial, however. If the woman on the right were in Tanzania, would she be a doctor surrounded by patients in the open air, as the woman on the left is? Or is she so accustomed to her North American laboratory, protected by gloves and a screen, that she could not adjust? The answer depends on personality, not knowledge.
KAI-UWE WÄRNER/DPA/CORBIS
JAMES GATHANY/PHOTO RESEARCHERS/GETTY IMAGES
JAMES GATHANY/PHOTO RESEARCHERS/GETTY IMAGES