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Cultural Values
Delving into the concept of cultural values, this comprehensive breakdown enables you to
comprehend the significance and range of impact these values carry within societies around the
globe. Discover how cultural norms and values shape societies, influence individual behaviours,
and even mould the nature of communication. Additionally, take a closer look at the critical role
these cultural values play in workplace environments, contributing significantly to the overall ethos
of the organisation. This insight offers an immersive exploration of cultural values across sectors
and societies, connecting you seamlessly to the vast network of shared human experience.
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 Understanding Cultural Values
 Examples of Cultural Values
 An Insight into Cultural Values and Norms
 Cultural Values in the Workplace
 Cultural Values in Communication
 Cultural Values - Key takeaways
Test your knowledge with multiple choice flashcards
1/3
What is the definition of cultural values in the context of business studies?
A. Cultural values in business refer to principles that dictate internal competition and rivalry
among employees.B. In business studies, cultural values are the financial methods and
procedures followed within a corporate culture.C. Cultural values in business studies relate
to the financial worth of a firm's intangible assets, such as reputation and brand value.D. In
business studies, cultural values are shared ideals and beliefs that guide behaviour and
decision-making processes within a community or social group.
1/3
How do cultural values impact communication styles?
A. Cultural values only influence the language used in communication and have no effect
on body language, tone of voice, or modes of expression.B. Cultural values play no role in
communication styles, as communication is directed more by personal preferences and
individual behaviours.C. Cultural values shape various aspects of communication,
dictating the choice of words, tone of voice, body language, and modes of expression. We
see this in such phenomena as high-context vs low-context communication, verbal vs non-
verbal communication, formality vs informality, and polychronic vs monochronic
orientation.D. Cultural values don't distinguish communication methods like verbal vs non-
verbal communication or formality vs informality, as these are universally consistent
behaviours.
1/3
What are cultural values and how do they differ from cultural norms?
A. Cultural values are the shared beliefs that form the basis of a society's identity and
determine what is considered essential or acceptable. In contrast, cultural norms are the
specific behaviours accepted and expected in a society, acting as the 'rules' that guide
everyday behaviour.B. Cultural values are the specific behaviours that are accepted and
expected in a society, while cultural norms are the shared beliefs that form the overall
identity of a society.C. Cultural norms refer to a society's shared beliefs and values, while
cultural values are the specific behaviours expected from its members.D. Both cultural
values and norms are the exact behaviours that people should follow in their everyday life.

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Understanding Cultural Values

Cultural values play a significant role in shaping a society's beliefs, customs, and
behaviors. They provide the guidelines that individuals use to judge what is important,
right, or desirable in life. Understanding cultural values is crucial, as variations in
these values often result in different business practices and expectations around the
world.

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Cultural Values Definition

In the realm of business studies, cultural values are ascribed to shared ideals and beliefs
which ultimately guide the behaviour and decision-making processes within a
community or social group.

Cultural values can be understood as the collective representation of what is considered

important and valuable in a culture.

These cultural values can be tangible, visible elements such as art, literature, or food, as
well as less visible aspects like social norms, ethical standards, and religious beliefs.

Evidently, cultural values are intriguingly complex and can be broken down into:

 Individualistic versus collective values

 Materialistic versus spiritual values

 Long-term versus short-term orientation

The Importance of Cultural Values in Society

Cultural values remain an essential component of society because they hold a society
together by creating common understanding and practices. Every culture possesses its
own unique set of values that guides its members' actions and interactions and helps to
understand their surrounding environment.

For instance, in many Eastern societies, the value of collectivism encourages individuals
to consider the wellbeing and success of the group over their personal achievements. On
the contrary, many Western societies place a higher value on individualism, promoting
personal ambition and independence.

Below is a table that presents a comparison of cultural values between Eastern and
Western societies.
 Eastern Societies Western Societies

Individualism vs Collectivism Collectivism valued Individualism valued

Long-term vs Short-term
Long-term orientation Short-term orientation
orientation

Materialistic vs Spiritual Spiritual values Materialistic values

values emphasised emphasised

Cultural values aren't stagnant but constantly evolve and adapt due to various factors like
technological advances, globalization, economic development, political shifts, among
others.

Examples of Cultural Values

Cultural values are socially constructed beliefs and norms that guide the behaviour of
individuals within a particular group. They are considered a fundamental part of a
society's identity, often reflecting long-standing customs, traditions, and ideologies.
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Various Cultural Values Examples from around the

Globe
Cultural values can be vastly diverse from one society to another. What's considered
common or standard behaviour in one region might be completely different in another
due to the variable nature of these values. Here are a few notable examples of cultural
values from different societies around the globe.

 Egalitarianism in Scandinavian Cultures: Scandinavian countries such as

Sweden, Norway, and Denmark highly value egalitarianism. This leads to relatively
flat organizational structures, a balanced distribution of wealth, and an emphasis on
gender equality and inclusion.

 Respect for the Elders in Asian Cultures: In many Asian societies, such as Japan
and China, great respect is accorded to older people. Seniors are viewed as wise and
experienced, and their opinions are highly valued.
  Individualism in American Culture: American culture places a high importance
on individualism, self-reliance, and personal freedom. This is often reflected in their
entrepreneurial spirit and democratic principles.

 Community and Extended Family in African Cultures: African societies, like

those in Ghana and Nigeria, traditionally put a lot of emphasis on communal ties
and extended family relationships.

 La Bella Figura in Italian Culture: Italians value beauty, aesthetics, and good
manners, a value referred to as 'La Bella Figura'. This translates as 'making a good
impression' and permeates everything from personal style to behavior and social
interactions.

The Impact of Cultural Values and Beliefs on Individual

Behaviour

Understanding cultural values and their implications on human behaviours is crucial in

numerous societal and business contexts. These values significantly influence
individuals' decisions, behaviours, and interactions. They define what's considered
acceptable, desirable, or taboo in a society, greatly determining how individuals interact
with one another and interpret the world around them.

For example, the Japanese value of 'Omoiyari', which translates to 'thoughtfulness' or

'consideration for others', fosters a culture where individuals think about the welfare of
the group above their own interests. This is reflected in their business culture, which
emphasizes group harmony, respect, and consensus-building.

In contrast, in societies where individualism is highly valued, like in the USA,

individuals tend to prioritize personal goals, achievements, and rights. As such, their
business culture tends to encourage competition, innovation, and personal responsibility.
Moreover, the impact of cultural values on behavior extends to every aspect of one's life
and varies according to different life circumstances. This has been mathematically
defined through an equation by renowned cultural psychologist, Geert Hofstede:

Behaviour=Function(Personality,Culture)

This equation suggests that an individual's behaviour is a function of both their

personality (personal values and beliefs) and their culture (collective values and beliefs).
Consequently, it underlines the prevailing wisdom that understanding cultural values is
crucial for understanding and predicting human behaviour.

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An Insight into Cultural Values and Norms

Cultural values and norms are the DNA of a society, shaping how individuals think,
behave, and interact with one another. These constructs provide a shared sense of
understanding that helps to maintain order and facilitates meaningful communication
within a group or society.

The Difference between Cultural Values and Norms

While cultural values and norms are closely interrelated, it's important to distinguish
between the two as they play different roles within a cultural construct. In essence,
cultural values are the shared beliefs that form the foundation of a group's or society's
identity. They dictate what is considered essential, acceptable, or desirable within the
society.

Examples may include:

 Respect for authority: found in hierarchical societies, where individuals are

expected to show deference to those in positions of power.

 Individualism: emphasised in societies that value autonomy, initiative, and

personal liberty.

 Collectivism: fundamental in societies where cooperation and group cohesion are

prioritised over individual ambitions.

On the other hand, cultural norms are the specific behaviours that are accepted and
expected in a particular society. They are essentially the 'rules' of the group – both
written and unwritten – that guide everyday behaviour. Violating these norms can result
in social sanctions or exclusion.

Examples of norms might include:

 Eating manners: norms about what is considered polite or impolite while eating.

 Dress code: norms governing what is appropriate to wear in different situations.

 Etiquette: norms outlining the proper way to behave in a variety of settings, from a
formal dinner to a casual get-together.

In simple terms, while cultural values govern what people view as important, cultural
norms dictate what they do in general and in specific situations.
How Cultural Values and Norms Shape a Society

Cultural values and norms exert a profound influence on the structure and functioning of
a society. They significantly influence individuals' attitudes, behaviours, and
interactions, ultimately shaping the societal fabric in many tangible and intangible ways.
Here's an in-depth look into how they do this.

Firstly, cultural values and norms provide a sense of order and predictability. They set
clear expectations for acceptable behaviour, ensuring that members of the society know
how to behave and what to expect from others. This makes social life more orderly and
predictable, reducing potential conflicts and misunderstandings.

Secondly, cultural values and norms help to foster social cohesion and stability. By
promoting shared norms and values, societies create a sense of belonging and unity
among their members. They provide a common framework that binds people together,
promoting social harmony and facilitating cooperative efforts.

Thirdly, cultural values and norms guide decision making and problem-solving at
both the individual and societal levels. They provide a framework for evaluating the
appropriateness of actions, helping individuals navigate complex decisions and
dilemmas

For instance, in societies where the cultural value of 'collectivism' is strong, individuals
might be more inclined to make decisions that benefit the group rather than just serve
their personal interests. Conversely, in societies that value 'individualism', individuals
might prioritise personal goals and rights in their decision-making.

Lastly, cultural values and norms define societal identity. They contribute to a distinct
cultural identity that sets one society apart from others. Even amidst increasing
globalisation, these shared values and norms continue to provide a sense of identity and
continuity, preserving the unique characteristics and traditions of different societies.
Therefore, cultural values and norms, collectively, form a societal blueprint that informs,
shapes, and structures every facet of societal life, including its institutions, laws, social
roles, and interpersonal relations. As such, understanding them is key to comprehending
social behaviour and dynamics within a given society.

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Cultural Values in the Workplace

In the modern, globalised working environment, cultural values are more relevant than
ever before. With diverse cultures coming together in the workplace, variances in
cultural values can significantly sway communication styles, workplace dynamics, and
overall productivity. Understanding these values is crucial for maintaining harmonious
workplace relationships and facilitating effective cross-cultural collaboration.

Role of Cultural Values in Shaping Workplace

Behaviour
In a workplace setting, cultural values play an essential role in shaping employees'
behaviours, attitudes, and interactions. They impact everything from decision-making
processes to communication styles and conflict resolution strategies, effectively
influencing the entire dynamics of the workplace.

Cultural values: These are deeply ingrained, socially constructed beliefs that guide
individuals' thoughts, actions, and interactions. They reflect what a particular culture
regards as important, acceptable, or desirable.

Here is how cultural values can influence workplace behaviours:

 Decision-making: In cultures that value collectivism, such as many Asian societies,

decision-making tends to be more cooperative and consensus-based. In contrast,
cultures that emphasize individualism, like the United States, might foster
individual initiative and creativity in decision-making.

 Leadership styles: In cultures with strong power distance values, such as India and
Saudi Arabia, hierarchical leadership styles may be more prevalent. On the other
hand, cultures with low power distance values, like Denmark and Sweden, may
have more democratic or participatory leadership styles.

 Conflict resolution: Cultures that are high on assertiveness, like Germany, may
prefer direct and confrontational conflict resolution styles. In contrast, cultures that
value harmony and avoidance of conflict, like Japan, might choose indirect and
non-confrontational methods.

 Work ethics and pace: Cultural values also influence work ethics and pace. For
instance, Protestant Work Ethic observed in many North European and North
American societies emphasize hard work, discipline, and frugality, leading to a
faster pace of work. Conversely, societies that value work-life balance would have
a slower pace of work.

Given the significant influence of cultural values on workplace behaviour, it is essential

for businesses, especially those with a diverse workforce, to understand and consider
these values when creating policies, strategies, and daily operational procedures.
Promoting Cultural Values and Beliefs in the Workplace
Environment

Promoting cultural values in the workplace can yield numerous benefits. It can help
foster mutual respect, improve teamwork, and increase employee engagement and
satisfaction. However, this isn't a straightforward task and requires carefully crafted
strategies that take into account the diverse values and beliefs of the workforce. Here are
some measures that can be adopted to promote cultural values effectively:

 Educate and raise awareness: Organisations can provide cultural sensitivity

training and workshops to their employees to educate them about different cultural
values, norms, and ways of communication. This could also include disseminating
information about different cultures through regular newsletters, team meetings, or
online platforms.

 Encourage open communication: Cultivating an environment that encourages

open, transparent discussion about cultural differences can help break down barriers
and foster understanding. Regular team meetings and group discussions could serve
as platforms for this exchange.

 Foster inclusivity: Organisations can strive to create an inclusive work culture

where every employee feels valued and included, regardless of their cultural
background. This could involve creating inclusive policies, ensuring diversity in
teams, and providing equal opportunities for growth and development.

 Commend cross-cultural competencies: Recognising and rewarding employees

who demonstrate knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to interact effectively
across cultures can motivate others to develop those competencies. This could
include praising those who show sensitivity towards and respect for cultural
differences, smoothly adapt to foreign cultural contexts, or adeptly manage
intercultural conflicts.
For instance, a global tech company like Google, known for its diverse workforce,
adheres to a set of ten core values, famously known as "Ten things we know to be true."
These values, ranging from 'Focus on the user and all else will follow' to 'You can make
money without doing evil,' aim to reflect aspects of different cultures, encouraging
compatibility and fostering unity amongst its diverse employee base. In such an
environment, open dialogue about cultural differences is encouraged, and inclusive
hiring practices are pursued, contributing to a more culturally sensitive work
environment.

Thus, promoting cultural values and beliefs in the workplace goes beyond merely
acknowledging cultural diversity. It's about creating an environment where these
differences are respected, voiced, heard, and integrated into the daily operations of the
organisation, ultimately enriching the workplace and enhancing its innovation,
productivity, and morale.

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Cultural Values in Communication

Cultural values are integral to communication patterns and styles. They form the very
foundation upon which social interactions and exchanges are constructed, interpreted,
and understood. From simple everyday greetings to complex business negotiations,
cultural values inevitably punctuate every form of human communication.
Understanding those values can strengthen cross-cultural communication, enhance
mutual respect, and foster stronger interpersonal and business relationships.

Impact of Cultural Values on Communication Styles

To fully grasp the significance of cultural values in communication, it's crucial to delve
deeper into how they sculpt distinct communication styles.

Communication Styles: These refer to the ways in which information is conveyed,

interpreted, and understood in a particular culture. It covers a wide range of aspects such
as language use, non-verbal cues, context interpretation, or even silence.

Cultural values influence communication in numerous ways - from the choice of words
and tone of voice to body language and modes of expression. The manifestations of this
influence can be seen in various communication phenomena including:

 High-context versus low-context communication: In high-context cultures (like

Japanese, Chinese, or Arabic), communication is often indirect, and meaning is
derived largely from context rather than explicit words. Conversely, low-context
cultures (like German, American, or Swedish), rely on direct, explicit verbal
communication.

 Verbal versus non-verbal communication: Some cultures have a rich repertoire

of non-verbal cues (facial expressions, gestures, body language), whereby much
communication takes place without words. On the contrary, other cultures pay
greater attention to verbal communication.

 Formality versus informality: Cultural values also dictate the level of formality in
communication. For instance, cultures that regard respect and deference as
important, might exhibit more formal, respectful communication. In contrast,
 cultures that value equality and informality would engage in more casual, friendly
communication.

 Polychronic versus monochronic orientation: Cultures with a polychronic

orientation like most Latin American and Middle Eastern countries view time as
flexible, leading to a more leisurely, less hurried communication style. Cultures
with a monochronic orientation such as America and Switzerland regard time as a
fixed, valuable commodity, resulting in more punctual, quick, and efficient
communication.

Notably, these cultural variations in communication can create misunderstandings when

individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds interact. Therefore, fostering cultural
awareness can enhance understanding, bridge communication gaps, and improve overall
communication effectiveness.

Understanding Social and Cultural Values in Communication

Encapsulating every single cultural value and its influence on communication is an

enormously vast and intricate task. However, understanding some common social and
cultural values can provide a useful starting point. Here are a few valued aspects
fundamental to many cultures:

 Relationships and harmony: Cultures like Chinese, Japanese, or Korean

emphasise maintaining social harmony and interpersonal relationships. So, they
may prefer more indirect, polite, face-saving communication.

 Respect for hierarchy: In cultures with high power distance like India or Saudi
Arabia, deferential language is used to communicate with seniors, superiors or
elders. Contrarily, in low power distance cultures like Denmark or Australia,
communication is more egalitarian.
  Individualism versus collectivism: In individualistic cultures like the USA or UK,
communication may be forthright, open, and individual-oriented. In collectivist
cultures like those of East Asia or Africa, communication tends to be indirect,
restrained, and group-focused.

 Uncertainty avoidance: In cultures high on uncertainty avoidance like Germany or

Greece, communication may be more formal, structured, and rule-oriented. In
cultures low on uncertainty avoidance like Singapore or Jamaica, communication
could be more flexible, spontaneous, and adaptable.

For example, suppose you’re in a business meeting with Japanese colleagues. For the
Japanese, respectful, harmonious communication is vital, and they avoid direct
confrontation. If you present an idea that they disagree with, they might say "That would
be very difficult" or "We'll think about it" instead of directly rejecting it. Therefore,
understanding this cultural nuance can prevent potential misinterpretations and foster
more effective communication.

Thus, gaining insights into these cultural values and their influence on communication
can help navigate intercultural interactions effectively and competently. Remember,
understanding cultural values is not about stereotyping or expecting every individual
from a culture to conform to these values. Instead, it's about being aware of potential
cultural tendencies to build robust, respectful, and culturally sensitive communication.

Cultural Values - Key takeaways

 Cultural Values: Deeply ingrained, socially constructed beliefs guiding
individuals' thoughts, actions and interactions, reflecting what a particular culture
regards as important, acceptable or desirable.

 Cultural Values and Individual Behaviour: Cultural values significantly

influence individuals' decisions, behaviours, and interactions. They define what's
 acceptable, desirable, or taboo in a society, determining how individuals interact
with each other and interpret the world around them.

 Cultural Values and Norms: Cultural values and norms shape how individuals
think, behave, and interact within a society. Cultural values are shared beliefs that
form a society's identity, while cultural norms are specific behaviours that are
accepted and expected in a society.

 Cultural Values in the Workplace: Cultural values are highly relevant in a diverse
workplace as they can influence communication styles, workplace dynamics, and
productivity. They shape employees' behaviours, attitudes, and interactions,
affecting everything from decision-making processes to conflict resolution
strategies.

 Cultural Values in Communication: Cultural values are integral to

communication patterns and styles and form the foundation upon which social
interactions and interactions are constructed, interpreted, and understood.
Flashcards in Cultural Values 15
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What is the definition of cultural values in the context of business studies?

In business studies, cultural values are shared ideals and beliefs that guide behaviour and
decision-making processes within a community or social group.

How do cultural values impact communication styles?

Cultural values shape various aspects of communication, dictating the choice of words, tone of
voice, body language, and modes of expression. We see this in such phenomena as high-context
vs low-context communication, verbal vs non-verbal communication, formality vs informality,
and polychronic vs monochronic orientation.

What are cultural values and how do they differ from cultural norms?
Cultural values are the shared beliefs that form the basis of a society's identity and determine
what is considered essential or acceptable. In contrast, cultural norms are the specific behaviours
accepted and expected in a society, acting as the 'rules' that guide everyday behaviour.

What are the roles of cultural values and norms in a society?

Cultural values and norms provide order and predictability, foster social cohesion and stability,
guide decision-making and problem-solving, and define societal identity. They form a societal
blueprint that shapes every aspect of societal life.

What are the three types of cultural value orientations mentioned?

The three types of cultural value orientations mentioned are individualistic versus collective
values, materialistic versus spiritual values, and long-term versus short-term orientation.

Why are cultural values considered crucial in society?

Cultural values are vital in society as they create a common understanding and practices, guiding
actions and interactions and helping individuals to understand their surrounding environment.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Cultural Values

What are examples of cultural values?

Cultural values include respect for authority, emphasis on collectivism or individualism,
importance of time, views on gender roles and equality, respect for hierarchy, attitudes towards
uncertainty, and perceptions of work ethics and success. These can vary widely between different
cultures.
Why are cultural values important?
Cultural values are important as they provide a shared understanding that guides and moulds
behaviour within a group or society. They foster unity, enhance corporate communication, and
shape decision-making processes, contributing to a productive and efficient business environment.
Why are cultural values important in the workplace?
Cultural values are vital in the workplace as they foster diversity, inclusivity, and mutual respect.
They enhance productivity and team cohesiveness by creating a positive work environment.
Furthermore, they influence decision-making and guide business ethics, promoting corporate social
responsibility.
What are the most significant cultural values?
The most important cultural values are respect, integrity, honesty, humility, caring for others, and
responsibility. These values underpin ethical behaviour and decision-making, promoting mutual
understanding and cooperation in a diverse cultural setting.
What are examples of different cultural values?
Examples of cultural values can include individualism, often seen in Western societies, where
personal achievements are highly valued. In contrast, collectivism is common in Eastern societies,
emphasizing family and community. Other examples are power distance values, manifesting in
hierarchy and respect for authority, or uncertainty avoidance, which influences risk-taking
behaviour.
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