Theory 1 Flashcards
THEORY 1
GEERT HOFSTEDE’S CULTURAL DIMENSIONS THEORY
Author: Geert Hofstede
a Dutch social psychologist and anthropologist
based on his extensive research on cross-cultural groups and organizations. His work has
significantly influenced the fields of international business
communication
Key Dimensions:
- Power Distance
Definition: The Power Distance Index (PDI) measures the extent to which less powerful members
of organizations and institutions accept and expect that power is distributed unequally.
High Power Distance:
Societies accept hierarchical order without much question.
Examples: Malaysia
Guatemala
Context: In high power distance cultures
there is a clear hierarchy
unlikely to challenge authority.
Low Power Distance:
Societies strive for equality and question authority.
Examples: Austria
Israel
Context: In low power distance cultures
power is more evenly distributed
greater emphasis on egalitarianism.
- Individualism vs. Collectivism
Definition: This dimension explores the degree to which people in a society are integrated into
groups.
Individualism:
Societies where ties between individuals are loose
and everyone looks after themselves and
their immediate family.
Examples: USA
Australia
Context: Individualistic cultures value personal freedom
self-reliance
achievements.
Collectivism:
Societies where people are integrated into strong
cohesive in-groups that protect them in
exchange for loyalty.
Examples: Guatemala
Ecuador
Context: Collectivist cultures emphasize group harmony
family bonds
group.
- Masculinity vs. Femininity
Definition: This dimension looks at the distribution of roles between genders.
