case 4

Power Distance

Refers to the extent that the members of a society expect and accept that power is distributed unequally

In Brazil, the richest 10% of the population receives about 50% of the national income (high power distance)

In Sweden, the richest 10% gets 22% of the national income (low power distance)

Individualism versus Collectivism

Individualism

Ties between individuals are loose

Individual achievement and freedom highly valued

Collectivism

Ties between individuals are strong

Collective accomplishments highly valued

In difficult times, the United States often practices layoffs (individualism) while Japan oftentimes institutes across-the-board pay cuts (collectivism)

Masculinity versus Femininity

Uncertainty avoidance

High uncertainty avoidance countries: Place a premium on job security, career patters, and retirement benefits; resist change (Greece)

Low uncertainty avoidance countries: Willing to take risk with less resistance to change (Singapore)

Long-term orientation

Cultures with long-term orientation: Emphasize perseverance and savings for future betterment (China)

Cultures with short-term orientation: Want quick results and instant gratification.