How is this not a stereotype? Relaxed, serious, expressive and shy are inherently neither good nor bad; they are straightforward characteristics. They may or may not be preferred and/or useful under varying circumstances; but of themselves they carry no inherent baggage. This is markedly different than adjectives such as lazy, smart, shut down or inscrutable (to name, God knows, just a few). Nothing means anything until we assign it meaning; and here is a great opportunity to watch how we do so.
So, that disclaimer out of the way, and my experience now stated, let’s see what ole Geert has to say. The most notable in the Pilipino chart was the Power Distance ranking of 90. Well, that certainly expresses deference. My Ecuadorian kid seems consistent with the rankings for Ecuador: Power Distance just above 70, Uncertainty Avoidance just over 60 and Masculinity just under 60 … and all the while maintaining her femininity and decorum she found ways to communicate her needs, made sure all her questions were answered, always had clarity; moreover, always expressing respect. My Dane was often made fun of behind his back. He exhibited behavior that is characterized as eccentric here. He was dead serious always, and expressing his somewhat foreign views was very important to him (he is a very bright atheist). It might also be noted that he never made enemies, for he was also respected (maybe even secretly admired); seen as struggling with existential angst … but at least he was authentic. Denmark’s most notable ranking is Individualism.
I’m not surprised.
retrieved Thursday, September 16, 2010
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