A review of Hofstede Six Distinct Cultural Dimensions. Geert Hofstede created six distinct cultural dimensions observed in every country (Hofstede Insights, 2018). These are described below;
Power Distance-Shows how distinct cultures deal with inequality, especially that relates to power and money.
Individualism vs. collectivism- In individualism, there is a mentality of every man for himself, while in collectivism concepts of we are given emphasis instead of I.
Masculinity vs. femininity-Culture measured in form of masculinity or femininity that represents the culture’s preference to competition, achievement, and preferences for teamwork.
Uncertainty avoidance-tends to be high in countries where rituals and traditions are a mainstay as changes are seen as intrusive.
Long-term orientation vs. short-term orientation- long-term orientation often stresses on customs and traditions.
Indulgent vs. restraint-indulgent encourages people to enjoy their leisure time while restraint describes how attitude veers towards cynicism and pessimism.
Comparison of scores in two countries
United States
Power distance-40
Individualism-91
Masculinity-62
Uncertainty avoidance-46
Long-term orientation-26
Indulgence-68
China
Power distance-80
Individualism-20
Masculinity-66
Uncertainty avoidance-30
Long-term orientation-87
Indulgence-24
Impacts of cultural differences between US and China
In the US, the emphasis is placed on equal rights in work environments while in China inequalities between employees and superiors is accepted.
Employees in the US are expected to display initiative and be self-reliant while in China, everyone acts in the best interest of the group.
In the US masculinity prevails over femininity, while China depicts a masculine-oriented society.
In the US, people are willing to accept new ideas while in China pragmatism is accepted as a way of life.
Americans strive for quick results while China exhibits a very pragmatic culture.
Americans go by the slogan play hard and work hard while the Chinese are restrained society.
References
Hofstede Insights. (2018, May 20). Country Comparison. Retrieved from Hofstede Insights: https://www.hofstede-insights.com/country-comparison/
