Cultural dimensions

Question 1

Cultural dimension

Answer 1

general factors underlying cross-cultural differences in values & behaviour; they have been identified on the basis of massive cross-national surveys
- one cultural dimension is individualism vs. collectivism

Question 2

culture

Answer 2

a dynamic system of rules that regulate interactions and behaviour in a group, as well as a number of shared values, traditions and attitudes in the group. They exist within large groups of people and are passed on from one generation to the next

Question 3

Individualism and Collectivism

Answer 3

focuses on the value of individual rights & achievements

Question 4

Individualistic societies

Answer 4

• everyone is expected to look after himself or herself and his or her immediate family
• people define their personality in terms of their own personal characteristics, their success & their unique features
  
  • among the strongest values in this society are personal autonomy, self sufficiency & competitiveness

Question 5

Collectivist societies

Answer 5

• identity is linked to the social group, & values associated w belonging to a group take priority over personal values
• from birth onwards people are integrated into strong, cohesive in-groups, often extended families which provides them with support and protection
• if an individual does not live up to the norms of the family or the larger social group, the result can sometimes be severe