Chapter 4: Values

Question 1

Values

Answer 1

a broad tendency to prefer certain states of affairs over others.
* influence what we consider good/bad and guide behavior.
* broad and not predictive of specific behaviors.
* Learned through social reinforcement from parents, teachers, and cultural figures.

Question 2

Generational Differences in Values

Answer 2

o Traditionalists: Loyal, respectful of authority, high work ethic.
o Boomers: Optimistic, competitive, team-oriented, workaholics.
o Gen X: Skeptical, independent, values work-life balance.
o Millennials: Social, confident, feedback-driven, tech-savvy.
o Gen Z: Independent, creative, entrepreneurial, tech-dependent.

Question 3

Cultural Differences in Values: Work Centrality

Answer 3

o High Work Centrality: Japan – work seen as core to identity and motivation.
o Low Work Centrality: UK – less emphasis on work as a core life interest.

Question 4

Hofstede’s Cultural Dimensions

Answer 4

o Power Distance: Acceptance of unequal power distribution.
o Uncertainty Avoidance: Comfort with ambiguous situations.
o Masculinity/Femininity: Gender role differentiation and value emphasis.
o Individualism/Collectivism: Emphasis on individual independence vs. group loyalty.
o Long-term/Short-term Orientation, was later added with Michael Bond’s work focusing on Eastern cultures.

Question 5

Cultural Distance

Answer 5

the degree of value differences between cultures, which can impact business relations and communication.

Question 6

Cultural Tightness vs. Looseness

Answer 6

Tight cultures (Pakistan, Singapore) have strict norms and punish deviations, while loose cultures (Brazil, USA) are more flexible and forgiving.

Question 7

Karoshi

Answer 7

Death caused by overwork, commonly seen in Japan.

Question 8

Exporting OB Theories (North America)

Answer 8

OB theories developed in North America may not be directly applicable in other regions due to cultural differences.

o low power distance values: encourages employee participation
o individualism

Question 9

Importing OB Theories

Answer 9

Management practices from other cultures, such as Japanese management techniques (e.g., quality circles, total quality management), have had mixed success when adopted in North America.

Question 10

cultural intelligence

Answer 10

the capability to function and manage well in culturally diverse environments