This paper attempts to bring a clearer view on the cross cultural studies in the light of its methodology, which has been derived from anthropological studies (Gillies, 2010). A theoretical analysis, based on publications and articles indicates that cross-cultural studies are grounded in social sciences and humanities but the cross cultural methodology transcends scientific field divisions.
Cross-cultural studies are defined as a field of study which deals with an interaction between different cultures, often in a business environment. J. Jeanty (2011) claims advances of communications technology have increased the speed of this process, resulting in opening the borders and global population getting closer. As a result, globalization sets into motion an increasing amount of interactions between people whose cultural backgrounds are different. Cross cultural studies, therefore, comprise areas of sociology, psychology, economics and political sciences in order to scrutinize human behaviour and verify theories about the culture and reasoning behind human actions.
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- Abstract
- Introduction
- Literature review
- Qualitative and quantitative research
- Discussion
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This paper aims to clarify the methodology of cross-cultural studies, tracing its origins and development within the social sciences and humanities. It examines the evolution of cross-cultural research methodologies, highlighting key figures and their contributions. The paper also explores the debate between qualitative and quantitative approaches to studying culture.
- The historical development of cross-cultural studies as a field.
- Key figures and their methodological contributions (e.g., Murdock, Kluckhohn, Malinowski, Hofstede).
- The contrast between qualitative and quantitative research methods in cross-cultural studies.
- The application of cross-cultural research in various fields (e.g., anthropology, sociology, economics).
- The influence of cultural dimensions on human behavior and social systems.
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
Abstract: This abstract provides a concise overview of the paper, highlighting its focus on the methodology of cross-cultural studies and their grounding in social sciences and humanities. It emphasizes the transdisciplinary nature of the cross-cultural methodology, derived from anthropological studies, and its relevance to understanding interactions between different cultures, particularly in business environments. The abstract sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the subject matter in the following sections.
Introduction: The introduction establishes the context for cross-cultural studies, explaining its emergence as a distinct field of study around 1950, primarily at Yale and Harvard Universities. It highlights the significant contributions of institutions like the Human Relations Area Files at Yale and the Department of Social Relations at Harvard in fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and research in this area. The introduction sets the historical groundwork for understanding the subsequent discussion of methodological approaches and key figures.
Literature review: This section delves into the contributions of prominent figures in anthropology, such as George Peter Murdock and Clyde Kluckhohn. It explores Kluckhohn's Value Orientation Theory, which emphasizes understanding cultural differences through analyzing values related to human nature, the relationship between humans and nature, time, activity, and social relations. The chapter further discusses the impact of influential anthropologists like Franz Boas and Bronisław Malinowski on the development of qualitative research methodologies, emphasizing Malinowski's pioneering work in participant observation.
Qualitative and quantitative research: This chapter examines the contrasting approaches of qualitative and quantitative research in cross-cultural studies. It highlights the work of Geert Hofstede, who used quantitative methods to identify cultural dimensions influencing workplace behavior, and contrasts this approach with Malinowski's qualitative emphasis on participant observation. The discussion explores the strengths and limitations of both approaches and considers their applications within the field.
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
Cross-cultural studies, methodology, qualitative research, quantitative research, anthropology, sociology, cultural dimensions, value orientation theory, participant observation, Hofstede, Malinowski, globalization, cultural understanding.
Frequently Asked Questions: A Comprehensive Language Preview
What is the main topic of this paper?
This paper focuses on the methodology of cross-cultural studies, tracing its historical development, key figures, and the contrasting approaches of qualitative and quantitative research within this field.
What are the key themes explored in the paper?
Key themes include the historical development of cross-cultural studies, the contributions of significant researchers (Murdock, Kluckhohn, Malinowski, Hofstede), the comparison of qualitative and quantitative research methods, the application of cross-cultural research across various disciplines (anthropology, sociology, economics), and the impact of cultural dimensions on human behavior and social systems.
What is covered in the "Literature Review" chapter?
The literature review examines the contributions of prominent figures like George Peter Murdock and Clyde Kluckhohn, particularly Kluckhohn's Value Orientation Theory. It also discusses the influence of Franz Boas and Bronisław Malinowski on the development of qualitative research methodologies, emphasizing Malinowski's participant observation.
How does the paper compare qualitative and quantitative research methods?
This section contrasts the approaches of qualitative (e.g., Malinowski's participant observation) and quantitative (e.g., Hofstede's cultural dimensions) research methods in cross-cultural studies. It analyzes the strengths and limitations of each approach and their respective applications within the field.
What is the significance of figures like Murdock, Kluckhohn, Malinowski, and Hofstede?
These figures are highlighted for their significant contributions to the development and methodology of cross-cultural studies. Their work represents different approaches and methodologies within the field, shaping its evolution and current practices.
What is the overall aim of the paper?
The paper aims to clarify the methodology of cross-cultural studies, providing a comprehensive overview of its origins, evolution, and key methodological debates within the social sciences and humanities.
What are the key takeaways from the "Introduction" chapter?
The introduction establishes the context of cross-cultural studies, explaining its emergence around 1950 and highlighting the contributions of institutions like the Human Relations Area Files at Yale and the Department of Social Relations at Harvard in fostering interdisciplinary research in this area.
What is included in the abstract?
The abstract provides a concise overview of the paper, highlighting its focus on the methodology of cross-cultural studies and its grounding in social sciences and humanities. It emphasizes the transdisciplinary nature of the methodology and its relevance to understanding cross-cultural interactions.
What are the keywords associated with this paper?
Keywords include: Cross-cultural studies, methodology, qualitative research, quantitative research, anthropology, sociology, cultural dimensions, value orientation theory, participant observation, Hofstede, Malinowski, globalization, and cultural understanding.
What is the structure of the paper?
The paper follows a clear structure including an abstract, introduction, literature review, a chapter dedicated to qualitative and quantitative research, and a discussion (implied by the chapter summaries). It also provides a table of contents and keywords.
- Quote paper
- Bettina Bett (Author), 2013, Cross-cultural studies in the light of its methology, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/279732
