The different dimensions of culture

National cultural frameworks describe national-based cultural differences along some common ‘dimensions’.

There are a number of frameworks, which vary in the number and type of value dimensions. For example, Hofstede’s framework compares six value dimensions, while GLOBE uses nine.

But the frameworks have some similar dimensions, such as individualism-collectivism and power distance.

1. Individualism-collectivism

Individualism-collectivism looks at the extent to which cultures prioritise individual concerns over group concerns to guide actions.

In societies characterised by individualist values, your own interests would generally guide your actions. In societies characterised by collectivist values, the interests of your group would predominantly guide your actions.

For instance, in individualistic societies, it’s common for young adults to make their own decisions about their career paths.

By contrast, in collectivist societies, young adults may prioritise their family’s preferences when it comes to deciding their careers.

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2. Power distance

The power distance dimension, also known as a hierarchy, addresses people’s attitudes toward power inequalities.

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In societies with high power distance, people tend to accept the presence of power inequalities and this influences how they behave toward others below or above them in the hierarchy.

For instance, in a high power distance culture, people generally wouldn’t question the authority of a supervisor at work.

But in societies with low power distance, the way people act is not driven so strongly by their position in a hierarchy.