The aim of this work is to explain the construct of cross-cultural communication using the Richard D. Lewis model and to analyze the differences between cultures. Intercultural communication is often associated with problems, misunderstandings and prejudices. In order to smooth communication and to understand the cultures of other countries there are countless models that try to condense cultural behaviour. While some researchers have looked at geographical divisions like north, south, east and west, others classified people by religion (Muslim, Christian, Hindu) or even by race (African, Indian, Arab). But how do you define the east? How do you classify a person that is African-Arab? Lewis seems to have found a solution to the problem by developing the culture type model in 1996. There are three types of cultures and each nation is analyzed and assigned in detail. Since it is represented as a triangle, hybrid types are also possible. The present work focuses on this model.
A German who is constantly punctual, a Mexican who always interrupts one, or a Japanese who doesn't keep eye contact during the conversation. All these are examples of cultural behavior. While the Mexican can't understand why a German has to leave the meeting at four o'clock on the dot, the Japanese finds it impolite that the Mexican won't let anyone finish the sentence. One often only becomes aware of cultural characteristics and specialties when you move within another culture. These kinds of cross-cultural relations only exist as a result of globalization, the internationalization of markets and new communication technologies. Today, almost everyone is able to communicate and collaborate with people from all over the world. These developments show that intercultural communication and competence is becoming an increasingly important topic. Hardly any large company operates only in its own country. If one wants to make profit, one has to offer one’s products not only in one’s home country, but all over the world. It is essential to know the cultural values and behaviors of other nations to be successful in other markets. Also, political and economic associations like the EU or NAFTA support international collaboration and it is seen as essential and desirable.
Table of Contents
1 Introduction
1.1 Aim and structure
1.2 Richard Donald Lewis
2 Definitions
2.1 Culture
2.1.1 Core Beliefs
2.1.2 Iceberg Model of Culture
2.1.3 Organizational Culture Model
2.2 Communication
2.3 Cross-cultural Communication
3 Lewis Model of Culture
3.1 Linear-active
3.2 Multi-active
3.3 Reactive
3.4 Intercategory comparisons
3.5 Critical reflection
4 Practical relevance of crossing culture
5 Managing and leading in different cultures
5.1 Germany
5.2 Mexico
5.3 Japan
5.4 Intercategory comparisons
6 Summary
Objectives and Core Topics
This paper aims to explain the construct of cross-cultural communication by applying Richard D. Lewis' cultural model. It analyzes cultural differences and investigates how various communication styles influence international management and business interactions.
- Theoretical foundations of cultural definitions (Schein, Hall, Lewis)
- Detailed breakdown of the Lewis Model: Linear-active, Multi-active, and Reactive types
- Practical application of cultural models in international business contexts
- Comparative analysis of Germany, Mexico, and Japan
- The role of intercultural competence in globalized economic environments
Excerpt from the Book
3.1 Linear-active
People who belong to this group do one thing at a time. They devote their full attention to one task and do it within a pre-planned time window. They think in that way they are able to do more things more effectively in less time. Time is seen as a valuable and valued resource. They prefer to plan and organize things in advance. They are perfectionist, realistic, responsible and reliable.
Their communication mode is the dialogue. In conversations they maintain a well-structured and considered communication according to question-answer patterns. They always behave politely, but are direct at the same time.
During the communication they orient themselves to data and facts and like clear statements and opinions. They see information as power and collect it via reading, the TV and the radio, databases and colleagues, family, friends and reports. Decisions are based on factual information.
If they are in a leadership position, they want to demonstrate their competences. They prefer logical thinking to their feelings and are action-oriented and business-oriented. They are focused on fast task delivery and good results.
Summary of Chapters
1 Introduction: Introduces the topic of cross-cultural communication and outlines the structure and the academic background of the Lewis model.
2 Definitions: Provides essential definitions for culture, communication, and cross-cultural interaction using established models like the Iceberg Model.
3 Lewis Model of Culture: Details the classification of cultures into linear-active, multi-active, and reactive types, including intercategory comparisons and critical reflection.
4 Practical relevance of crossing culture: Discusses the necessity of intercultural competence due to globalization and the expansion of international trade.
5 Managing and leading in different cultures: Applies the theoretical model to practical business scenarios in Germany, Mexico, and Japan.
6 Summary: Concludes the work by reflecting on the value of cultural models while acknowledging the constant change in cultural behavior.
Keywords
Cross-cultural communication, Lewis Model, Linear-active, Multi-active, Reactive, Intercultural competence, International management, Culture types, Globalization, Business behavior, Germany, Mexico, Japan, Cultural values, Organizational culture
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary objective of this work?
The paper aims to explain Richard D. Lewis' cultural model and analyze how different cultural types influence communication, management, and leadership in international business.
What are the three main cultural types identified in the Lewis Model?
The model categorizes nations into Linear-active (data-oriented, organized), Multi-active (relationship-oriented, emotional), and Reactive (listening-oriented, respectful) types.
Which scientific method is used in this research?
The paper uses a descriptive and analytical approach, synthesizing existing literature, historical data, and established cultural theories to create a comparative framework.
What does the main body of the work focus on?
The main part explains the definitions of culture and communication, details the Lewis Model, and applies these concepts through specific case studies of Germany, Mexico, and Japan.
Why is this study relevant to modern business?
In a globalized world, understanding cultural nuances is essential for successful international trade, effective team management, and avoiding costly miscommunications.
What are the key characteristics of the Lewis Model?
The model is visualized as a triangle, allowing for hybrid cultural categorizations, and emphasizes behavioral tendencies such as time orientation, leadership style, and communication patterns.
How do Japanese and German management styles compare?
Both cultures are seen as punctual and serious, but Germany is highly rule-based and direct, whereas Japan is indirect, consensus-driven, and highly group-dependent.
How does the author view the "Reactive" cultural category?
The Reactive type, often found in Asian cultures, is characterized by patience, listening, and maintaining harmony, which the author notes was historically under-researched.
Are these cultural classifications absolute?
No, the author explicitly warns that these models are abstractions. Individual behavior varies, and cultural characteristics evolve over time due to globalization and rapid innovation.
What is the role of the "Iceberg Model" in the definitions chapter?
It illustrates that only a small part of culture is visible (e.g., clothing, food), while the vast majority (values, norms) remains hidden and significantly influences behavior.
- Quote paper
- Anonym (Author), 2018, Cross Cultural Communication. The Lewis Model and the Differences between Cultures, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/512374
