Cultural Dimension

Theory

What is cultural dimension theory?

This theory is used to understand the differences among cultures.

How can we use this theory?

It can help to understand the people…

…how they think…

…how they approach others.

Hofstede's Cultural Dimension Theory

Image source: http://references4u.blogspot.com/2012/07/hofstede-cultural-dimension-theory.html

Power Distance THE DEGREE OF INEQUALITY

Summary

It is used to measure the equality or inequality among people in a society.

Types

There are two types: High power distanceLow power distance

Example: High power distance

Respect for authority.

Wide salary range from top to bottom.

Everyone has specific place.

Example: Low power distance

All have equal rights.

Respect for individuality.

Narrow salary range from top to bottom.

No set hierarchy.

Hofstede's Cultural Dimension Theory

Image source: http://references4u.blogspot.com/2012/07/hofstede-cultural-dimension-theory.html

Individualism - CollectivismTHE STRENGTH OF THE TIES PEOPLE HAVE

Summary

It focuses on relationship between the individual and the group.

Image source: http://www.healthinsurance.org/_wordpress/wp-content/uploads/faqs/2010/09/individual_group1.jpg

Types

There are two types: Individual societies Collective societies

Examples

Individual societies Collective societies

Lose connection with people.

Loyalty to group.

Examples

Individual societies Collective societies

Decision based on individual needs.

Decision based on group needs.

Examples

Individual societies Collective societies

People taking care of themselves.

Dependence on organization.

Hofstede's Cultural Dimension Theory

Image source: http://references4u.blogspot.com/2012/07/hofstede-cultural-dimension-theory.html

Masculinity - FemininityTHE DISTRIBUTION OF ROLES BETWEEN GENDERS

Summary

This is about relation between gender and sex appropriate behavior.

Types

There are two types: High Masculine societiesLow Masculine societies

Example: High Masculine societies

Men are providers.Women are supportive.

Example: Low Masculine societies

Men and women are more equal.

Hofstede's Cultural Dimension Theory

Image source: http://references4u.blogspot.com/2012/07/hofstede-cultural-dimension-theory.html

Uncertainty AvoidanceTHE DEGREE OF ANXIETY

Summary

This is about fear to the unknown situation.

Types

There are two types:High uncertainty avoidanceLow uncertainty avoidance

Example: High uncertainty avoidance

People work well within…

…a structured environment…

…under strict laws.

Example: Low uncertainty avoidance

People welcome freedom of opinions…

…have few rules …

…concern with long-term strategy.

Hofstede's Cultural Dimension Theory

Image source: http://references4u.blogspot.com/2012/07/hofstede-cultural-dimension-theory.html

Time OrientationTHE EXTENT OF THE TIME ORIENTATION OF A CULTURE

SummaryThis describes whether gratification should be immediate or deferred.Image source: http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2012-11-30/vast-pools-of-money-still-ignore-sustainable-investing.html

Types

There are two types: Short time orientationLong time orientation

Example: Short time orientation

The society values traditional methods.

Example: Long time orientation

The society values thrift and perseverance.

List of References

Demowaiyan. Retrieved on April 10, 2013, from http://www.demowaiyan.org/2013/03/blog-post_21.html

Douglas S. W. (2013). Leveraging Hofstede’s Cultural Dimensions Theory to Improve the Quality of Information Operations. Retrieved on June 25, 2013, from http://smallwarsjournal.com/jrnl/art/leveraging- hofstede%E2%80%99s-cultural-dimensions-theory-to-improve-the-quality-of-information-oper

Hofstede's Cultural Dimensions. Understanding Workplace Values Around the World. Retrieved on June 25, 2013, from http://www.mindtools.com/pages/article/newLDR_66.htm

Weeklyeleven. Retrieved on June 1, 2013, from http://www.weeklyeleven.com/local/mandalay-news-and-local/

By: Soe Moe Tun (111100119)Under Graduate Studies Program (Computer Science)Albukhary International University, Malaysia.