The Two Dimensions Of American Culture
The second dimension that U.S. American culture is measured by is the level of individualism. This dimension addresses “the degree of interdependence a society maintains among its members” (Hofstede, 2003, p.1). The United States scored extremely high in this dimension, making it one of the most individualistic cultures in the world. This score suggests U.S. Americans are self-centered, looking out for their own personal interests before the interests of the group. In all areas of U.S. American culture there is a strong relationship between organizations and individuals. This is evidenced by the capitalist system where industries are individually held and controlled by private owners. On the other hand, collectivist societies tend to employ
socialistic or communistic ideals, where there is some joint ownership with the state.
The United State’s capitalist system is not the only thing that demonstrates its individualistic tendencies. U.S. Americans tend to value personal success and constantly compare their own individual achievements to those of others. For example, in a business environment the employees are expected to independently finish tasks, handle responsibilities, and create personal success. Furthermore, these workers are expected to take initiative and enable business processes by themselves. Jobs and promotions in the United States are given based on personal skills and individual merit rather than by family name, which also shows their emphasis on individuality. Although family name is somewhat important for U.S. Americans, they tend to only devote themselves to immediate family members. Conversely, in collectivist societies, loyalty stretches out to extended family members. Lastly, in correlation with the power distance index score, everyone in the U.S. is considered equal and therefore entitled to their own opinion. This leads to a lack of consideration for others in decision-making processes, which is a big indicator of the United States’ high score in this dimension. This, along with a focus on individual relationships and accomplishments, make it easy to understand their high ranking comparative to other countries.
socialistic or communistic ideals, where there is some joint ownership with the state.
The United State’s capitalist system is not the only thing that demonstrates its individualistic tendencies. U.S. Americans tend to value personal success and constantly compare their own individual achievements to those of others. For example, in a business environment the employees are expected to independently finish tasks, handle responsibilities, and create personal success. Furthermore, these workers are expected to take initiative and enable business processes by themselves. Jobs and promotions in the United States are given based on personal skills and individual merit rather than by family name, which also shows their emphasis on individuality. Although family name is somewhat important for U.S. Americans, they tend to only devote themselves to immediate family members. Conversely, in collectivist societies, loyalty stretches out to extended family members. Lastly, in correlation with the power distance index score, everyone in the U.S. is considered equal and therefore entitled to their own opinion. This leads to a lack of consideration for others in decision-making processes, which is a big indicator of the United States’ high score in this dimension. This, along with a focus on individual relationships and accomplishments, make it easy to understand their high ranking comparative to other countries.