Power Distance - Japan vs my nationalities

Welcome once again, 

This is JohnnyBloggyBoy and today I will discuss the differences between Hofstede's Power Distance Index [PDI] in three countries: Japan, Poland and Canada.

But before we begin, let us quickly review what this Dutch social psychologists was on about.

During his years working in IBM (1967-1973) Hofstede decided to conduct an international study aiming to better understand the differences between cultures in the workplace. His model consisted of 6 different dimensions, each of which will be discussed in the foreseeable future, and still remains one of the most influential models in regards to cultural differences. Today we will explore only one dimensions namely Power Distance Index.

PDI answers the question whether a culture respects more hierarchy or the strength of an individual. Or quoting the author himself "The Power-Distance Index (PDI) measures how power is distributed and accepted within a specific group or society". 

Alright let us dive right into the good stuff...

The comparison of PDI in Canada (orange), Japan (grey) and Poland (blue).  

 On the graph above you can see the PDI for 3 countries previously mentioned. Assuming that you do know how the work ethic looks like in Japan, let me compare the other countries. What was shocking to me was the fact that Poland actually has higher PDI than Japan (sic). Canada's PDI, being an individualistic and rather open culture, sounds about accurate. 

You see Poland was for a long time a communist country (always very high PDI. Example: China's PDI= 80) and since the study has been conducted in 70s and the generations did not change entirely, we can safely assume that it is bound to change within upcoming generations.

But my knowledge is limited since I am coming from upper-middle class, I only worked in international corporations as a white collar and I live in the capital. An experience bubble so to speak. 

What is your country's PDI? Let me know!

Komentarze

  1. Felicia13 października 2025 23:09

    I like the inclusion of the chart, and I also find it interesting that Japan’s power distance is less than eastern Europe’s.

    OdpowiedzUsuń
  2. Emilija13 października 2025 23:10

    The chart and the writing style is so fun haha!

    OdpowiedzUsuń

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