1 / 20100%
BUSI 604
Page 1 of 2
BUSINESS CULTURAL DIMENSIONS ANALYSIS ASSIGNMENT INSTRUCTIONS
OVERVIEW
The purpose of this research project is for you to write a professional, graduate-level research
paper in current APA format. Competency in current APA format is required of all Business
graduates of Liberty University, as set forth by policy of both the graduate faculty and the
administration.
INSTRUCTIONS
You will research and write a paper analyzing the cultural perspectives of doing business in
another nation. Your professor will provide a list of approved nations from which you will
choose one nation.
After reading your paper, the reader should be able to comprehensively answer the following
research questions. Thus, the research questions form the major aspects (APA Level 1 headings)
of your outline.
What are the major elements and dimensions of culture in this region? (See Satterlee:
Chapter 2 for a list of the 6 required dimensions.)
How are these elements and dimensions integrated by locals conducting business in the
nation?
Important Points to Consider
Length of assignment: 10 pages minimum
o 10 pages is approximately 2,500 words of content, that does not include the Title
Page, Table of Contents, Abstract, or References. Absolutely no tables or figures
or columns must be included as they will not count toward the 10 full pages [2500
words] minimum only written content will earn credit.
Format of assignment: APA Format
Number of citations: 10 citations
Acceptable sources include references from reputable professional and/or scholarly
journals and/or informational venues that deal with the content of the course (i.e., not
blogs, Wikipedia, newspapers, etc.).
Use the following as the exact title of your paper:
o Business Cultural Dimensions Analysis Assignment: (insert nation selected)
The paper must consist of only 2 sections, as indicated above. Do not add sections or
revise the research questions.
Three levels of current APA headings must be used throughout the paper, as this is a
graduate-level research paper.
The paper must be submitted as a Microsoft Word Document
Note: Your assignment will be checked for originality via the Turnitin plagiarism tool.
Some students do not fully understand the difference between plagiarism and paraphrasing.
Paraphrasing is when you take a source or someone else’s idea and say it in your own words.
When you paraphrase, you must still give the author’s name, date, the title of the source, the
scholarly journal from where it came, and the exact website address or book from where it came.
However, when you directly quote a source, it must have quotation marks around the quote, or
BUSI 604
Page 2 of 2
(if 40 words or more) it must be set in block-quotation format. Give detailed information of
where you acquired the quote.
For the purpose of this paper, adhere to the following rules when quoting or using a source:
Do not directly quote more than 120 words from any 1 source.
If the source is 2,000 words or less, do not directly quote more than 50 words from it.
Do not use the same source more than a total of 3 times within the whole document for
quoting or paraphrasing.
Quotes must contain the section (if provided) and paragraph or page numbers of the quote
and this information must be placed in the reference.
In all instances, use current APA guidelines for citations and references.
BUSI 604
Page 1 of 2
BUSINESS CULTURAL DIMENSIONS ANALYSIS EXAMPLE
Title: Business Cultural Dimensions Analysis: <Insert Nation Selected>
Outline Example
Introduction
Seriously relevant graduate school research requires a question for which no ready answer is
available. The research is conducted, to answer specific questions regarding a topic, problem, or
issue for which the answers are not yet known. Let us focus on the concept of a topic. What do
you want to know about a topic? Asking a topic as a question (or series of related questions) has
several advantages:
Questions require answers. A topic is hard to cover completely because it typically
encompasses too many related issues; but a question has an answer, even if it is
ambiguous or controversial.
Questions give you a way of evaluating the evidence. A clearly stated question helps
you decide which information will be useful. A broad topic may tempt you to stash away
information that may be helpful, but you are not sure how. A question also makes it easier
to know when you have enough information to stop your research and draft an answer.
A clear open-ended question calls for real research and thinking. Asking a question
with no direct answer makes research and writing more meaningful to both you and your
audience. Assuming that your research may solve significant problems or expand the
knowledge base of a discipline involves you in more meaningful activity of community
and scholarship.
In this course, the required research questions are open-ended and require a variety of
accumulated data to develop answers. Your topic is a Business Cultural Dimensions Analysis of
the nation you selected. You have been provided two specific research questions to guide you in
the study of this topic which, if done well, will demonstrate you have attained an advanced
measure of expertise in the topic. The research questions provide the framework of your
analysis.
1. Question 1 requires you to discuss the general elements of culture (described in Chapter 2
of your textbook) as they apply to your chosen nation.
2. Question 2 is a natural extension of Question 1 in that you will demonstrate how these
elements of culture are used in business dealings by the people of your nation.
The example begins on the following page.
Be sure to use the exact wordings in this outline
for your APA level-headings.
BUSI 604
Page 2 of 2
EXAMPLE OUTLINE
Research Question 1: What are the major elements and dimensions of culture in this region?
Dimension of Culture: Communication
Dimension of Culture: Religion
Dimension of Culture: Ethics
Dimension of Culture: Values and Attitudes
Dimension of Culture: Business Manners and Customs
Dimension of Culture: Social Structures
Research Question 2: How are these elements and dimensions integrated by locals conducting
business in the nation?
Dimension of Culture: Communication
Dimension of Culture: Religion
Dimension of Culture: Ethics
Dimension of Culture: Values and Attitudes
Dimension of Culture: Business Manners and Customs
Dimension of Culture: Social Structures
1
Name
Date
2
Abstract
This study will discuss the six cultural dimensions, including communication,
religion, ethics, values and attitudes, business manner and customs, and social structures.
This study will discuss how Egyptians integrate these cultural dimensions into their
business. Egyptians are renowned for their warmth and generosity; people should not be
shocked if some invite them into their homes and request that you stay there. Egyptians are
renowned for their tolerance and acceptance of individuals of various cultures. Egyptians are
exceptionally eager to assist anyone in need. Egyptians are more inclined to conduct
business with a person they know and trust. Before participating in business together, they
will likely spend a considerable amount of time becoming acquainted. Age and experience
are also required for the majority of employment, especially in the public sector.
3
Table of Contents
1. Nation: Egypt .......................................................................................................................... 4
2.
Major elements and dimensions of culture in this region
...................................................... 4
2.1. Dimension of Culture: Communication ......................................................................... 4
2.2. Dimension of Culture: Religion ..................................................................................... 5
2.3. Dimension of Culture: Ethics ........................................................................................ 6
2.4. Dimension of Culture: Values and Attitudes
.............................................................. 6
2.5. Dimension of Culture: Business Manners and Customs ................................................. 7
2.6. Dimension of Culture: Social Structures ........................................................................ 8
3. Elements and dimensions integrated by locals conducting business in Egypt ........................... 9
3.1. Dimension of Culture: Communication ......................................................................... 9
3.2. Dimension of Culture: Religion ................................................................................... 10
3.3. Dimension of Culture: Ethics ...................................................................................... 10
3.4. Dimension of Culture: Values and Attitudes ................................................................ 11
3.5. Dimension of Culture: Business Manners and Customs ............................................... 12
3.6. Dimension of Culture: Social Structures ...................................................................... 13
4. Conclusion ............................................................................................................................ 13
5. References............................................................................................................................. 14
4
Business Cultural Dimensions Analysis
1. Nation: Egypt
The history of Egypt is extensive and immensely interesting. Even in current times,
Egypt is still mostly an agricultural civilization, with the majority of the nation's inhabitants
concentrated in only a few major cities. People may know this nation best for its pyramids
and pharaohs. Most of the 97 million people in the nation reside in the Nile Valley and the
rivers around the river's banks (Haars et al., 2016). These regions are among the most
densely populated in the world, with an average population density of 1,540 persons per
square kilometer, compared to the national average of 96 (Haars et al., 2016). Despite the
military being in power, it appears to be a democracy (Powell et al., 2018). Muslims make
up almost all of the population; a very small percentage are Christians (Arthur, 2018).
2.
Major elements and dimensions of culture in this region
2.1. Dimension of Culture: Communication
The Egyptians are renowned for their ability to express several emotions through
their body language and speech. Since they enjoy joking, wordplay, and storytelling, all of
which add to their sense of humor, they are more likely to be expressive and conversational.
They frequently have an open and expressive temperament and find it simple to
communicate their joy and gratitude ("Egyptian Culture - Communication," 2017).
However, expressing your anger in public is never a good idea since it might be
misconstrued as a personal assault. Egyptians avoid addressing the subject in their
5
interpersonal communication. They find it difficult to give straightforward responses and
react with lengthy justifications. Depending on how close the two people are, touching the
other person during a conversation may or may not be suitable. In contrast to those they
have recently met, close friends and family members are more likely to make physical
contact with one another. Most of the time, maintaining direct eye contact is appropriate and
is regarded as a sign of respect for the person speaking and honesty and sincerity ("Egyptian
Culture - Communication," 2017).
2.2. Dimension of Culture: Religion
The importance of religion in Egyptian culture is significant. Egypt's legal system
and political processes continue to be influenced by Islamic views on law, politics, and
social norms despite the appearance of secularism in the nation. Egypt's official religion is
Islam, and most Egyptians practice Sunni Islam (Blaydes & Platas, 2020).
However, Egypt is a reasonably tolerant, and most visitors from other countries do
not have any issues going there. Around 8% of Egyptians practice the Coptic Christian
religion (Lane & Redissi, 2020). 90% of Egyptians identify as Muslims, with Sunni Islam
constituting the majority. 9% Coptic Orthodox Christians and 1% Christians of other
denominations make up the remaining population (Lane & Redissi, 2020). Religious
disagreements can give rise to social problems. As the Muslim majority and the Coptic
Christian minority regularly engage in violence, there is a chance that followers of minority
religions will experience unfair treatment (Seiple & Doran, 2018). Conversion to another
religion and interfaith marriage may be disapproved of or even prohibited in some families.
6
2.3. Dimension of Culture: Ethics
Ancient Egyptians could not understand morality and ethics without a thorough
comprehension of ma'at. The term Ma'at represented the ethical concepts of "truth," "order,"
and "cosmic equilibrium." In addition, these concepts were embodied in the goddess Ma'at.
The goddess Maat, who represented truth, justice, and rightness, as well as the ideal order
and harmony of the universe, was the personification of Maat (Ogunyemi et al., 2020).
Pointing the toe, heel, or any other portion of the foot straight toward another person
is viewed as being exceedingly rude. Additionally, some believe that showing others the
soles of one's shoes is impolite. In Egyptian culture, having a meek and quiet demeanor is
highly admired. The initial step in most social interactions is to greet one another politely
(Rukwaru, 2020).
2.4.
Dimension of Culture: Values and Attitudes
Despite variations in location and socioeconomic standing in Egypt, certain ancient
behaviors have persisted while others have not. Sharaf, another word for honor, is a basic
idea in Egyptian culture (Paniconi, 2022). It significantly influences how individuals act and
how well they get along with one another.
Even though patriarchal obligations still play a significant role in how many cultures
define what it means to be honorable, these customs are usually exclusively observed in
rural regions. Some individuals think that the greatest way to judge a person's dignity is to
look at how much they respect and adhere to cultural values common in contemporary
Egypt. Things like modesty, loyalty, honesty, and hospitality are examples of these cultural
standards (Lowstedt, 2019).
7
To be kind, sensitive, and considerate toward other people, one should feel
appreciation and pride. Everyone must also uphold their responsibilities and be devoted to
their families since this is another expectation. Egypt has historically been a collectivist
society; hence it is commonplace for a person to put the needs of their family or community
above their unique desires and objectives (Agang et al., 2020).
2.5. Dimension of Culture: Business Manners and Customs
In Egypt, an individual's network is more significant than their skills in conducting
business. People believe that nepotism is acceptable and that creating and keeping strong
networks are essential. People frequently break the law and create interpretations of it to get
past the restrictions put in place by companies. The Egyptians prefer to do business with
people they already know and can rely on. This makes it realistic to assume that before
doing business together, a significant amount of time will be spent getting to know one
another. Age and years of relevant experience are additional crucial considerations,
especially when applying for government employment (Arthur, 2018).
The great majority of the time, exchanging business cards is done cordially. The
probability of the Egyptian businessman you deal with offering you coffee or tea is very
high. Even though it might not be something, you would often drink, taste. People
frequently mistakenly believe that rejecting a proposal equates to rejecting an individual. In
Egypt, people are highly regarded for dressing modestly and appropriately for work
(Kulwicki, 2021).
8
2.6. Dimension of Culture: Social Structures
Ancient Egypt's three basic socioeconomic groups were the high, middle, and lower
classes. The upper class in this society was composed of members of the royal family,
affluent landowners, prominent religious figures, government and military officials, and
physicians. Most of those regarded as a middle class at the time were business owners,
producers, and creative types. Members of the lowest class, which also had the largest
number, were unskilled laborers. Most of the population were agricultural workers (Smith,
2018).
Ancient Egyptian society's tight hierarchical structure was prone to change.
Compared to those born into affluent households, individuals born into lower- or middle-
class families have a higher chance of moving up the social ladder. They typically rose
through the ranks of society through marriage or prosperous careers. Some advantages were
granted to slaves as well. They were free to purchase items on their own, get married, and
inherit property as they saw fit (Garcia, 2019).
Male members of the community handled the majority of their responsibilities.
Women were permitted to possess property, inherit property, and engage in business
activities even though males were regarded as the head of the household. Even though the
man was regarded as the family's leader, the female members received several advantages
(Garcia, 2019).
9
3. Elements and dimensions integrated by locals conducting business in Egypt
3.1. Dimension of Culture: Communication
People from different cultures could feel their personal space violated if Arabic speakers
are conversing while standing near one another. Many people traveling for business may feel
very anxious when this proximity is coupled with intense eye contact and a high level of
touching among persons of the same sexual orientation. When trying to get along with someone,
it is important to ensure that there are no body language nuances that might make the task
difficult ("Egyptian Culture - Communication," 2017).
People frequently employ flowery language and lavish praise when speaking Arabic, and
both are occasionally overdone. This method is not a plan, nor does it suggest that somebody is
being dishonest. People try to keep their speech style consistent, especially when forming new
relationships. Sometimes it may appear as though Egyptians are screaming at one another and
having a furious dispute, but that is merely a perception (Agag, 2019). It is important to
remember that feelings convey conviction and that a calm demeanor might be mistaken for
disinterest or lack of interest.
Egyptians are extremely proud of their country and everything it has done (both ancient
and modern.) It is rather interesting to examine Egypt's place in the world, its lengthy and rich
history, and its quickly growing sports sector. However, people should avoid discussing politics
and enquiring about coworkers' families or relationships. To do business with government
officials, people must be aware of their titles since they indicate the hierarchy and authority the
person holds. They should not greet a government official unless expressly instructed to do so
("Egyptian Culture - Communication," 2017).
10
3.2. Dimension of Culture: Religion
Egypt is a country in Africa with a population of 105 million people. It is situated on the
coast of the African continent, more to the north, between the Mediterranean Sea and the Red
Sea. One of the most distinctive aspects of Egyptian civilization throughout history has been the
diversity of its religious practices. The indigenous population of this country has been influenced
by a number of religious traditions over the course of its history. The polytheistic pharaonic
religion, Judaism, Greek and Roman influences, Christianity that started in the first century CE,
Islam that started in the seventh century CE, the Bahá', Jehovah's Witnesses, and other religions
from the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, as well as ancient Egyptian religions, make up
Egypt's religious history. A large number of unofficial Islamic schools and sects, as well as a
sizable number of religious groups representing a wide spectrum of other religions, are present in
Egypt's contemporary society. In spite of some small steps forward in terms of religious
freedom, structural and ongoing issues remained, and religious minorities were still subjected to
unjust treatment in a variety of ways (Awad, 2021).
3.3. Dimension of Culture: Ethics
Being proud of one's Egyptian heritage is one of the factors that go towards having
dignity and respect. The intricacy of these concepts is barely touched by these thoughts.
Respecting a person's entire family as well as their religious beliefs is essential if you want to
keep their respect. No matter if the person is a Christian or a Muslim. Reputation is a person's
sense of honor. Egyptians should be treated with the respect due to their reputation and standing
in the world. From the respect and civility with which they are welcomed to their expectation
that others would accept their place in Egypt's social and political system, this is made
abundantly evident in everything they do together (“Egyptian Culture - Core Concepts,” 2017).
11
A person's ability to use their time, energy, and resources effectively is one of the many
ways productivity may be characterized. The likelihood of Egyptians abusing drugs, alcohol, or
gambling is quite low. Additionally, they do not exert themselves as much as they can since they
believe that all that is necessary for them to accomplish is the basic minimum to assure their life.
Additionally, because they are not held accountable for the results of their actions, many people
waste time during their working hours on worthless activities. In order to meet the objectives it
has set for the nation's economic growth, the Egyptian government is committed to an economic
strategy that emphasizes economic regulation. In contrast to what is normally intended, this
approach encourages people to work less and earn less money, which is the reverse of what is
typically desired. Business transactions are growing more difficult and costly as a result of the
government's propensity to load its employees with pointless administrative tasks that can only
be completed by paying bribes. This is the immediate result of this propensity. Those that have a
firm understanding of how to move through this specific framework have a significant
competitive edge (“Egyptian Culture - Core Concepts,” 2017).
3.4. Dimension of Culture: Values and Attitudes
The Egyptian people aspire to be treated with the respect, kindness, and decency that is
appropriate for their status in society. In addition, they will treat visitors with the same respect
and consideration they do dignitaries. In Egypt, looking down on someone is one of the most
difficult and hurtful ways to offend somebody. Egyptians are likely to feel embarrassed and
ashamed, and they could even feel humiliated if they are perceived as being disrespectful in any
manner. Never behave in a way that suggests that we are not concerned about or don't take the
job seriously. Even if once they get to know you, Egyptians have an interesting sense of humor,
people should still use utmost caution while utilizing humor around them. Be prepared for the
12
possibility that in order to conduct business with the opposition, we may need to maintain good
connections with them. Egyptians like to conduct business with someone they have met in
person. People should also travel to Egypt frequently to demonstrate their commitment to the
Egyptian market. People concentrate on strengthening team cohesion. Relationships take time
and effort to develop, so do not attempt to rush it or brush the connections off as unimportant
(“Egyptian Culture - Core Concepts,” 2017).
3.5. Dimension of Culture: Business Manners and Customs
Partners need to be close to one another in order to successfully do business together. In
Egypt, people are more likely to do business with someone they already know. This suggests that
expats should spend some time building relationships with prospective business partners and
earning their confidence. Due to the importance of networking in Egypt, expats are strongly
advised to get in touch with their local friends to request crucial introductions and
recommendations. Foreigners should not anticipate starting a business conversation with a
partner they are meeting for the first time in Egypt right away. Egyptians like spending time
getting to know one another before getting down to work. Everyone would benefit if the business
discussions waited until the Egyptian trading partner did (Ai et al., 2019).
The trait that foreigners need to possess the most in order to succeed when conducting
business in Egypt is patience. This is a true statement on the topic of negotiation. The great
majority of business meetings are tedious and drag on for too long. Egyptians are known to be
expert negotiators who hardly ever agree to a trade's original conditions. This reputation is well-
deserved. Organizationally, the Egyptian business community is hierarchical. People give a lot of
weight to their titles and social standing. In Egypt, the appropriate order of addressing someone
is to use their title first, followed by their last name. If a person does not have a more particular
13
title to match with their name, it is acceptable to call them as Mr. or Mrs (“Egyptian Culture -
Communication,” 2017).
3.6. Dimension of Culture: Social Structures
The increase in the unemployment rate in Egypt has directly contributed to a three-fold
increase in the rate of violent crime. Males have been known to sexually assault women during
protests against the government, and these protests can occasionally turn violent. Because of this,
women are no longer permitted to travel alone because it is now widely believed to be extremely
dangerous for them to do so. Women should be allowed to travel freely and safely, especially in
congested areas where males are more likely to surround a lone woman and assault her
physically or sexually. This is crucial in circumstances where there are lots of males around
(Mecky, 2018).
4. Conclusion
This study found that the resilience of the Egyptian people is well-known worldwide.
It is strongly advised that anytime people make a statement, they always support it with
research and facts, rather than using force to demonstrate your position. No high-pressure
tactics should be implemented. In the majority of instances, the individual with the most
influence makes the decisions, but only after the group has attempted to establish consensus.
It takes substantially longer than normal to hold dialogues and reach conclusions when the
government is involved, as a large number of departments and agencies must reach an
agreement.
14
5. References
Agag, G. (2019). E-commerce ethics and its impact on buyer repurchase intentions and loyalty:
An empirical study of small and medium Egyptian businesses. Journal of Business
Ethics, 154, 389-410.
Agang, S. B., Forster, D. A., & Hendriks, H. J. (Eds.). (2020). African public theology. Langham
Publishing.
Ai, B., Cui, C., & Wang, L. (2019). Language, Identity, and Transnational Communication:
Chinese Business Expatriates in Africa. IEEE Transactions on Professional
Communication, 62(2), 178-191.
Arthur, G. (2018). Modern Egypt: The formation of a nation-state. Routledge.
Awad, L. (2021). Cultural and intellectual developments in Egypt since 1952. In Routledge
Library Editions: Egypt (pp. Vol4-143). Routledge.
Blaydes, L., & Platas, M. R. (2020). Religion, family structure, and the perpetuation of female
genital cutting in Egypt. Journal of Demographic Economics, 86(3), 305-328.
Egyptian Culture - Communication. (2017, January 1). In Cultural Atlas.
http://culturalatlas.sbs.com.au/egyptian-culture/egyptian-culture-communication
Egyptian Culture - Core Concepts. (2017, January 1). In Cultural Atlas.
http://culturalatlas.sbs.com.au/egyptian-culture/egyptian-culture-core-concepts
Garcia, J. C. M. (2019). The state in ancient Egypt: power, challenges and dynamics.
Bloomsbury Publishing.
Haars, C. A., Lönsjö, E. M., Mogos, B., & Winkelaar, B. (2016). The uncertain future of the Nile
15
Delta. NASA/GSFC: Greenbelt, MD, USA.
Kulwicki, A. D. (2021). People of Arab heritage. Textbook for Transcultural Health Care: A
Population Approach: Cultural Competence Concepts in Nursing Care, 251-276.
Lane, J. E., & Redissi, H. (2020). Islam and Politics: Where the Principal Difficulty of Post-
modernity Lies. In Religion and Politics (pp. 177-190). Routledge.
Löwstedt, A. (2019). Do we still adhere to the norms of ancient Egypt? A comparison of
Ptahhotep’s communication ethics with current regulatory principles. International
Communication Gazette, 81(6-8), 493-517.
Mecky, M. (2018). State policing: Moral panics and masculinity in post-2011 Egypt. Kohl: A
Journal for Body and Gender Research, 4(1), 94-105.
Ogunyemi, O., Mansi, M., & Azab, S. (2020). Creativity, initiative and innovation in ancient
Egypt and contemporary workplace ethics. In African virtue ethics traditions for business
and management (pp. 30-41). Edward Elgar Publishing.
Paniconi, M. E. (2022). Bildungsroman and the Arab Novel: Egyptian Intersections. Taylor &
Francis.
Powell, J., Faulkner, C., Dean, W., & Romano, K. (2018). Give them toys? Military allocations
and regime stability in transitional democracies. Democratization, 25(7), 1153-1172.
Rukwaru, M. (2020). Social Etiquette and Manners. Eureka Publishers.
Seiple, C., & Doran, A. (2018). Western advocacy on behalf of religious minorities: Practical
reflections. In Routledge Handbook of Minorities in the Middle East (pp. 382-395).
Routledge.
16
Smith, M. L. (2018). Urbanism and the middle class: Co-emergent phenomena in the worlds
first cities. Journal of Anthropological Research, 74(3), 299-326.
Students also viewed