Hofstede's Cultural Dimensions

Question 1

Power Distance

Answer 1

measures the extent to which there is a clear
cultural sense of rank and status in society

Question 2

Individualism vs. Collectivism

Answer 2

measures the
extent to which people feel they should care for themselves
(individualism) versus caring for or being cared for by the
family network and others in society (collectivism)

Question 3

Masculinity vs. Femininity

Answer 3

focuses on the extent to which a culture
conforms to traditional gender values and traits

Question 4

Uncertainty Avoidance

Answer 4

measures the
extent to which people in an organization or country prefer
structured routines (predictability) over flexible structures.

Question 5

Long-term v. Short-Term Orientation

Answer 5

the extent to which a particular
culture values making sacrifices today for the benefits to be
reaped in the future

Question 6

Indulgence vs. Self-Restraint

Answer 6

indulgent
culture is one that enables people to let go & have freedom of
speech whereas a culture
that emphasises self-restraint has strict social norms to ensure
self-regulation and control

Question 7

Limitations

Answer 7

• may lead to confirmation bias
• basis is inconclusive research (based off of one company)
• oversimplifies complex matters
• does not consider other factors that could affect culture

Question 8

Gains

Answer 8

• easily used to classify and discuss cultures across organisations
• based on empirical evidence
• explored wide range of social behaviours
• helps prevent culture clashes and misunderstandings