In "Culture Confrontation in Urban America," Chaim Potok introduces the concept of the Zwischenmensch, which he uses to articulate his personal experience with cultural conflict. He describes this individual as someone who navigates through urban environments, encountering and confronting different cultural identities. This journey of exploration and confrontation significantly influences their identity and worldview.

The Zwischenmensch transcends their native cultural boundaries, integrating enriching aspects from other cultures into their own life. Potok emphasizes that these cross-cultural encounters not only shape one's identity but also foster a deeper appreciation for the diverse elements that exist within the urban landscape. This idea illustrates the dynamic nature of cultural interactions in modern society.