Hofstede's Long Term vs Short Term Orientation

 You can figure out where a culture stands on the scale of long term to short term orientation somewhat based on whether or not they as a society focus on the past, or the present. I would classify the United States and Ghana as being short term oriented, and Japan as Long term oriented. Although both Ghana and the United States are classified as being short term oriented and more focused on saving face and immediate results, they differ when it comes to traditional thinking. Ghana places in high esteem the traditions of the past and they use those laws in tandem with the government systems to settle disputes and other cases. I would say that is the complete opposite for the United States because the people wouldn't hesitate to abandon tradition if it means fast results or a better outcome. 

 Respect for traditions is another important difference between the long- and short-term orientations. Nations with a short-term orientation have respect for past traditions but remain within the constraints of the traditions instead of moving ahead, whereas nations that are characterized as having a long-term orientation are able to adapt their traditions to a modern context (Peterson 2002). In comparison, Japan has adapted their traditions to fit their constantly changing ideals. 

I would very much prefer a forward thinking country so I do well in long term orientation areas. 


References: Http://www.sciencedirect.com.ezproxy.csu.edu.au/sc... (n.d.). http://www.sciencedirect.com.ezproxy.csu.edu.au/science/article/pii/S1031170X02800071


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