Week 2 Hofstede’s Cultural Framework

Question 1

What kind of research did Hofstede conduct?

Answer 1

Hofstede studied employees from various countries who were working for major multinational corporations.

Question 2

What is the conclusion of Hofstede’s study?

Answer 2

• He assumed that different cultures can be distinguished on the basis of differences in what they value.
• His 6 value dimensions can be used to derive insight into organised behaviour across cultures and to distinguish cultures across these specific dimensions.

Question 3

Value Dimension: Power Distance

Answer 3

Beliefs about the appropriate distribution of power in society.

People in some cultures:

• highly value equality among individuals.
• highly value hierarchies or power distances between people.

Question 4

Value Dimension: Uncertainty Avoidance

Answer 4

Extent to which people feel threatened by uncertain or unknown situations.

People in some cultures:

• value certainty in everyday life & have difficulty coping with unanticipated events
• greater tolerance for ambiguity and seem to relish change.

Question 5

Value Dimension: Individualism-collectivism

Answer 5

Relative importance of individual vs. group interests in society.

Question 6

Value Dimension: Masculinity-femininity

Answer 6

Assertiveness vs. passivity; material possessions vs. quality of life.

Question 7

Value Dimension: Time Orientation

Answer 7

Long-term vs. short-term outlook on work, life, and relationships.

Question 8

Value Dimension: Indulgence-restraint

Answer 8

Societal emphasis on enjoyment and need gratification vs. strict social control to suppress or regulate gratification.