A comparison of Costa Rican and German culture according to Hofstede's Dimensions

Term Paper , 2020 , 28 Pages , Grade: 1,5

Sociology - Culture, Technology, Nations

Through this term paper, the reader is given an understanding of the Costa Rican and German culture and an instrument to play the Costa Rican and German social game.
In order to play the social game, it is advisable to take a closer look at the unwritten book and thus be able to understand the rules. Developing strong skills in communication and conflict resolution is increasing in value and importance due to an internationally linked world. For this reason, the topic of culture is addressed with a special focus on two contrasting societies. The aim is to show the reader some specific peculiarities of the Costa Rican and German culture.
First, the concept of culture is discussed. It will be explained what culture is and how it is created. Furthermore, it will be described how culture influences individuals and which role countries play in it. In the next step, the reader is introduced to Hofstede's six Dimensions of National Culture. These serve as a tool for classifying and analysing cultures and their values. It will be explained how Hofstede's dimensions were developed, what they mean and what values they represent. After the dimensions have been presented, Costa Rica´s and Germany's achieved scores are mentioned. Typical Costa Rican and German behavioural patterns, values and characteristics are then assigned to all dimensions. Then, an attempt to explain the achieved results is made on this basis. At the same time, it is intended to draw attention to the values lying behind the behaviours.

Content

Abstract

Introduction

Culture
Patterns, Mental Programs, Culture
Developing Identities
Culture and National Boarders
Understand and Distinguish Cultures

Hofstede's Dimensions of National Culture
Power Distance
Individualism
Masculinity
Uncertainty Avoidance
Long Term Orientation and Indulgence

Country Specifications - Costa Rica and Germany
Costa Rica
Germany

Costa Rican and German Culture
Power Distance in CR and GER
Individualism versus Collectivism in CR and GER
Masculinity versus Femininity in CR and GER
Uncertainty Avoidance in CR and GER

Summary

Bibliography

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• College: Fresenius University of Applied Sciences Hamburg (Wirtschaft)
• Grade: 1,5
• Author: Nicole Christen (Author)
• Publication Year: 2020
• Pages: 28
• Catalog Number: V933870
• ISBN (eBook): 9783346261977
• ISBN (Book): 9783346261984
• Language: English
• Tags: Hofstede, German, Germany, Costa Rica, costarican, culture, Dimension, Hofstede´s Dimensions, Power Distance, Individualism, Collectivism, Masculinity, Femininity, Uncertainty Avoidance, Long Term Orientation, Indulgence