Briefly describe the original four dimensions that were examined by Dutch researcher Geert Hofstede.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

The original four dimensions that Hofstede examined were (1) power distance, (2) uncertainty avoidance, (3) individualism, and (4) masculinity. Power distance is "the extent to which less powerful members of institutions and organizations accept that power is distributed unequally." Countries in which people blindly obey the orders of their superiors have high power distance.
Uncertainty avoidance is "the extent to which people feel threatened by ambiguous situations and have created beliefs and institutions that try to avoid these." Countries populated with people who do not like uncertainty tend to have a high need for security and a strong belief in experts and their knowledge. Cultures with low uncertainty avoidance have people who are more willing to accept that risks are associated with the unknown and that life must go on in spite of this.
Individualism is the tendency of people to look after themselves and their immediate family only. Collectivism is the tendency of people to belong to groups or collectives and to look after each other in exchange for loyalty.
Masculinity is defined by Hofstede as "a situation in which the dominant values in society are success, money, and things." Hofstede measured this dimension on a continuum ranging from masculinity to femininity. Contrary to some stereotypes and connotations, femininity is the term used by Hofstede to describe "a situation in which the dominant values in society are caring for others and the quality of life."