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Culture

The document discusses six dimensions of national culture identified in Geert Hofstede's cultural framework: power distance index, individualism vs collectivism, uncertainty avoidance index, masculinity vs femininity, long-term vs short-term orientation, and indulgence vs restraint. Each dimension is defined in terms of where countries fall on the spectrum, such as whether they have a high or low power distance index, and the implications for work-related values and behaviors in countries that differ on each dimension. Examples are given to illustrate how dimensions may influence business practices and communication styles across cultures.

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165 views

Culture

The document discusses six dimensions of national culture identified in Geert Hofstede's cultural framework: power distance index, individualism vs collectivism, uncertainty avoidance index, masculinity vs femininity, long-term vs short-term orientation, and indulgence vs restraint. Each dimension is defined in terms of where countries fall on the spectrum, such as whether they have a high or low power distance index, and the implications for work-related values and behaviors in countries that differ on each dimension. Examples are given to illustrate how dimensions may influence business practices and communication styles across cultures.

Uploaded by

mihir
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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Power Distance Index The power distance index considers the extent to which inequality and power are

tolerated. In this
dimension, inequality and power are viewed from the viewpoint of the followers – the lower level.*High power distance index
indicates that a culture accepts inequity and power differences, encourages bureaucracy, and shows high respect for rank and
authority. Low power distance index indicates that a culture encourages organizational structures that are flat, decentralized
decision-making responsibility, participative style of management, and places emphasis on power distribution.

Individualism vs. Collectivism The individualism vs. collectivism dimension considers the degree to which societies are
integrated into groups and their perceived obligation and dependence on groups.*Individualism indicates that there is greater
importance on attaining personal goals. A person’s self-image in this category is defined as “I.” Collectivism indicates that there
is greater importance on the goals and well-being of the group. A person’s self-image in this category is defined as “We”.

Uncertainty Avoidance Index The uncertainty avoidance index considers the extent to which uncertainty and ambiguity are
tolerated. This dimension considers how unknown situations, and unexpected events are dealt with.*High uncertainty
avoidance index indicates a low tolerance for uncertainty, ambiguity, and risk-taking. The unknown is minimized through strict
rules, regulations, etc. Low uncertainty avoidance index indicates a high tolerance for uncertainty, ambiguity, and risk-taking.
The unknown is more openly accepted, and there are lax rules, regulations, etc.

Masculinity vs. Femininity The masculinity vs. femininity dimension is also referred to as “tough vs. tender,” and considers the
preference of society for achievement, attitude towards sexuality equality, behavior, etc.*Masculinity comes with the following
characteristics: distinct gender roles, assertive, and concentrated on material achievements and wealth-building.Femininity
comes with the following characteristics: fluid gender roles, modest, nurturing, and concerned with the quality of life.

Long-Term Orientation vs. Short-Term Orientation

The long-term orientation vs. short-term orientation dimension considers the extent to with a society view its time
horizon.*Long-term orientation shows focus on the future and involves delaying short-term success or gratification in order to
achieve long-term success. Long-term orientation emphasizes persistence, perseverance, and long-term growth. Short-term
orientation shows focus on the near future, involves delivering short-term success or gratification and places a stronger
emphasis on the present than the future. Short-term orientation emphasizes quick results and respect for tradition.

Indulgence vs. RestraintThe indulgence vs. restraint dimension considers the extent and tendency for a society to fulfill its
desires. In other words, this dimension revolves around how societies can control their impulses and desires.*Indulgence
indicates that a society allows relatively free gratification related to enjoying life and having fun.Restraint indicates that a
society suppresses gratification of needs and regulates it through social norms.

Examples:1 Application: According to the model, in a high PDI country, such as Malaysia (100), team members will not initiate
any action, and they like to be guided and directed to complete a task. If a manager doesn't take charge, they may think that
the task isn't important.

2central American countries Panama and Guatemala have very low IDV scores (11 and six, respectively). In these countries, as
an example, a marketing campaign that emphasizes benefits to the community would likely be understood and well received,
as long as the people addressed feel part of the same group.

4 In Hofstede's model, Greece tops the UAI scale with 100, while Singapore scores the lowest with eight. Therefore, during a
meeting in Greece, you might be keen to generate discussion, because you recognize that there's a cultural tendency for team
members to make the safest, most conservative decisions, despite any emotional outbursts. Your aim is to encourage them to
become more open to different ideas and approaches, but it may be helpful to provide a relatively limited, structured set of
options or solutions.

5 The U.S. has a short-term orientation. This is reflected in the importance of short-term gains and quick results (profit and loss
statements are quarterly, for example). It is also reflected in the country's strong sense of nationalism and social standards.

6According to the model, Eastern European countries, including Russia, have a low IVR score. Hofstede argues that these
countries are characterized by a restrained culture, where there is a tendency towards pessimism. People put little emphasis on
leisure time and, as the title suggests, people try to restrain themselves to a high degree.

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