10 minutes with Geert Hofstede... on Power Distance 10112014

Summary

This script explores the concept of power distance, first introduced by Dutch psychologist Mark Bu, as a cultural dimension reflecting the acceptance of unequal power distribution in societies. It contrasts large and small power distance societies, highlighting differences in values, behaviors, and societal structures. The Power Distance Index (PDI) measures these societal differences on a scale from 0 to 100, with higher scores indicating greater inequality. The script also discusses the correlation of PDI with various societal phenomena, such as income inequality and political systems, and notes a gradual shift towards smaller power distances over generations, while maintaining country-specific positions.

Takeaways

• 📚 The term 'power distance' was first used by Dutch social psychologist Mark Bu in the 1960s to describe societal power relations.
• 🌐 Power distance index (PDI) measures the extent to which less powerful members of institutions accept power inequality in society.
• 👶 Power distance is ingrained in societies through the relationship dynamics between children and their parents.
• 🌈 The script contrasts 'large power distance' societies, where inequality is considered normal, with 'small power distance' societies, where inequality is seen as wrong and should be reduced.
• 🧐 In large power distance societies, superiors are seen as inherently superior beings, unlike in small power distance societies where hierarchy is seen as necessary but not inherently superior.
• 🏛 Power in large power distance societies is seen as determining what is good and evil, while in small power distance societies, power is expected to be used legitimately under the same legal framework.
• 👨‍👧 Respect is a key learning for children in large power distance societies, whereas independence is emphasized in small power distance societies.
• 🏢 Large power distance societies prefer centralization, while small power distance societies favor decentralization.
• 💼 In large power distance societies, subordinates expect to be told what to do, whereas in small power distance societies, they expect to be consulted.
• 📊 PDI is measured on a scale from 0 to 100, with higher scores indicating greater power distance and lower scores indicating less power distance.
• 🔄 The script suggests that while there is a slight shift towards smaller power distances over time, the relative positions of countries remain stable, indicating the enduring nature of these cultural traits.

Q & A

Who first used the term 'power distance'?

The term 'power distance' was first used in the 1960s by a Dutch social psychologist named Mark Bu.

What is the definition of power distance according to the script?

Power distance is defined as the extent to which the less powerful members of institutions and organizations expect and accept that power is distributed unequally.

How does power distance manifest in societal relationships?

Power distance is present in the relationship between children and parents, where children learn a position towards their parents and other older people in their environment.

What is the difference between large power distance and small power distance societies?

In large power distance societies, inequality is considered a normal part of society, and superiors are seen as superior beings. In contrast, in small power distance societies, inequality is seen as wrong and should be reduced if possible, and hierarchies are seen as necessary for order but do not imply superiority of the superiors.

How does power distance affect the perception of good and evil in a society?

In large power distance societies, power comes first, and good and evil come afterwards, meaning who has power determines what is considered good or evil. In small power distance societies, power should be used legitimately, and everyone is under the same rules of law.

What is the role of respect in the education of children in large power distance societies?

In large power distance societies, respect is one of the most important things a child can learn, emphasizing the importance of hierarchy and obedience.

How does power distance influence the organization of societies?

Large power distance societies tend to favor centralization, while small power distance societies prefer decentralization.

What is the typical relationship between subordinates and their boss in large power distance societies?

In large power distance societies, subordinates expect to be told what to do by their bosses, reflecting a more directive leadership style.

How is societal power distance measured?

Societal power distance is measured by an index called the Power Distance Index (PDI), which is plotted on a scale from 0 to 100, with scores close to zero indicating smaller power distance and scores close to 100 indicating larger power distance.

How do power distance index scores correlate with societal phenomena?

High PDI scores correlate with more income inequality, smaller middle class, and higher likelihood of dictatorships or oligarchies. Low PDI scores correlate with less income inequality, larger middle class, and more peaceful conflict resolution.

Do power distance index scores change over time?

While there can be a shift towards smaller power distances over time, the relative position of countries to each other remains largely the same, indicating that these scores are relatively stable over time.