Hofstedes Business Culture

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University of Houston Victoria | International Management | Term Essay | | Adrian M. Flores 1094757 | 4/13/2012 | Table of Content 1. Background 2. Critically evaluate Hofstede’s culture theory, such as its assumption, pro and cons, limits, 3. and possible improvement Hofsted’s Culture Theory The essential theory that Hofsted was attempting to reach was an understanding of the dimensions of the effect of a society’s culture and the effect it would have on its members. Geert Hofstede analyzed the outcome of over 117,000 surveys given to various employees of the IBM Corporation during the late 60’s and early 70’s. It was one of the first theories that could be quantified and helped in the understanding the differences between various cultures. Its essential dimensions were focused on Power Distance, Uncertainty Avoidance, Individualism, and Masculinity. Each one of these dimensions proved to be a core essence of what each individual culture defines as a normal environment. With each dimension a unique parameter of distinctions occurs with positive or negative iconic reasoning due to individual levels of understanding. Power Distance Power Distance is the level of acceptance by a society of the unequal distribution of power in institutions. To understand this concept you have to understand the extent in which each subordinate accepts unequal power. For example stating what Hofstede mentions about the United States he says, “The United States score low on this dimension (40) which underscores the American premise of “liberty and justice for all.” This is also evidenced by the focus on equal rights in all aspects of American society and government. Here we see that hierarchy is established for convenience and it is stated that managers should be available and accessible to the subordinates. Specifically information is shared
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