Italy is a powerful and astonishing country. From the elite and powerful Roman Empire, to the majestic order of the Vatican City and dedication to Roman Catholicism and the Pope, Italy is definitely a country that has had a prominent impact on the rest of the world. Canali & DeCarlo (2009) characterize Italy as a country full of dynamic heritage. Full of passion, Italy has potential to satisfy the appetite of any tourist, enthusiast or historian. Urbanization, elegance, ancient culture and superb cuisine have competitively positioned Italy for the tourist market (Canali & DeCarlo, 2009, pp 8-22). Is this same region culturally prepared for globalization and able to open its boundaries to foreign partners and investors to embrace mutual growth? Discussion of the idea above is the purpose of the cultural analysis. First, a cultural examination of Italy in comparison to the United States will provide specific compatibility information, to determine if an alliance between these two countries would be advantageous. Next, insight into possible implications for global mangers and potential strategies to successfully navigate foreign relations in Italy. Finally, concluding with Italy’s cultural sustainability and strength in supporting globalization and foreign alliances.
Italy’s Dimensions of Culture
Culture is a key aspect of who we are. It shapes us. Culture defines us as diverse beings with traditional differences that can be found in our beliefs, customs, and morals. These differences allow us to distinguish ourselves from other societies or groups. From birth, culture is embedded deep within- as we learn the patterns and behaviors that are the accepted norm. Over time diverse cultures can blend together to form one larger culture, which is the case of the United States.
Considered a “melting pot” the U.S. can be seen as having one of the most culturally diverse societies in the world. Business managers would agree that such
Bibliography: Balcet, G. & Evangelista, R. (2005). Global technology: Innovation strategies of foreign affiliates in Italy Beebe, S. & Beebe, S. (2010). Blue Book of Communication. 5th Ed. Boston: Pearson, pp. 98-100. Berry, K., Estus, W., Nash, S., Ramos, M., & Silzell, J. (2010). Culture and nonverbal communication in Italy Bosrock, M. (2010). Italy. e-Diplomat. Retrieved on June 6, 2011 from http://www.ediplomat.com/np/cultural_etiquette/ce_it.htm Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs. Retrieved on May 26, 2011 from http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/4033.htm CIA - The World Factbook. Cia.gov. Retrieved on May 26, 2011 from https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/it.html#Comm Gordan, R.G., (ed.), 2005. Ethnologue: Languages of the World, Fifteenth edition. Dallas, Tex.: SIL International Italian_language::sub::Geographic_Distribution. Retrieved on June 20, 2011 from http://www.servinghistory.com/topics/ Italy profile. OpenNet Initiative website. Retrieved June 2, 2011 from http://opennet.net/research/profiles/italy Jessica. (2008). Which way do you kiss in Italy? BootsnAll Travel Network. Retrieved on June 2, 2011 from http://www.italylogue.com/about-italy/which-way-do-you-kiss-in-italy.html Kohut, A. (2008). Assessing globalization: Benefits and drawbacks of trade and integration. http://pewresearch.org/pubs/879/assessing-globalization-benefits-and-drawbacks-of-trade-and-integration La Spada, M.G. (2010). Globalization and its effects on diversity: Some economic aspects. Global Challenges Series: EURODIV PAPER 76, pp Lewis, M.P., (ed.), 2009. Ethnologue: Languages of the World, Sixteenth edition. Dallas, Tex.: SIL International McKinnon, A. (2003). Entrepreneurship and Gobalisation A Literature Review. Retrieved on June 20, 2011 from http://homepages.inspire.net.nz/~jamckinnon/business/Entrepreneurship%20and%20Globalisation%20-%20A%20Literature%20Review.pdf Mind Tools.com Essential Skills for an Excellent Career. “Hofstede 's cultural dimensions: Understanding workplace values around the world.” Retrieved on June 1, 2011from