Hofstedes Dimensions Abstract Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Hofstedes Dimensions Abstract - Assignment Example The five dimensions of Hofstede’s cultural dimension framework are power distance, individualism, masculinity, uncertainty avoidance, and long term orientation. The power distance dimension measures the inclination of the poor citizens of a country to accept power is distributed unequally. In countries that have a high power distance index the people accept their status within the system even if they are at the bottom. Governments that are abusive take advantage of culture with high power distance to impose their regimen on the people. Arab countries have a much higher power distance score than western nations such as the United States. The second dimension of Hofstede’s framework is individualism. Individualism refers to the instinct of people of looking out for their best interest instead of the group. In individualism societies the people are taught to look out for themselves and their families. The United States is a very individualistic society, while Japan believes in collectivism. The survival of the fittest mentality of Americans has instilled a belief in the people that anyone can raise themselves out of poverty through hard work. High educational levels are needed for people in individualistic societies to compete for good paying jobs. The third cultural dimension is masculinity. â€Å"Masculinity versus its opposite, femininity refers to the distribution of roles between the genders which is another fundamental issue for any society to which a range of solutions are found† (Clearlycultural). The country with the highest masculinity index in the world is Japan. In Japan the females do not have equal rights in the workplace. Most managers and supervisors in Japan are males. The United States has a lower masculinity rating than Japan, but the glass ceiling effect still exist and females are often passed by for promotions due to their gender. The fourth