BMT 11 Hofstede's Cultural Dimensions HL Flashcards
1) individualism vs collectivism
measures whether the culture values prioritise the individual over the team (individualism) or the team over the individual (collectivisim)
measures the degrees to which individuals are integrated into groups
In general
european countries are individualistic and asian countries are collectivistic
what are the 6 cultural dimensions
individualism vs collectivism
masculinity vs femininity
power distance
short termism vs long termism
uncertainty avoidance
indulgence vs self-restraint
2) masculinity vs femininity
measures the extent to which the culture follows stereotypical gender roles
Masculine traits - competitive, ambition, assertiveness
Feminine traits - consulting others, caring, cooperation
masculine traits can be seen as more aggressive in a country with more feminine traits
3) power distance
measures the extent to which hierarchy and rank is accepted in society
high power distance - juniors accept that seniors have power, centralized decision making, higher rank is acknowledged
low power distance - respect is earned, juniors can challenge seniors, more delegation
4) short termism vs long termism
how far in advance does the culture plan for?
how likely are they to sacrifice the short term for long term gains
short term - results now or soon, UK or US etc
long term - can make sacrifices now if there’s a long term gain, asian countries
this will influence decision making within an organisation
5) uncertainty avoidance
attitude to uncertainty
on the one hand - highly structure routine, be told what to do, highly supervised, timetables
in contrast - flexibility over how to do things, less supervision, can use own initiative
6) indulgence vs self restraint
indulgent - satisfy needs and wants, enjoy life have fun
Self restraint - duty is more important than pleasure, sacrifice
in general, employees in indulgent countries are likely to put up with less
