What aspect do Hofstede's cultural dimensions compare?

Hofstede's cultural dimensions specifically focus on comparing cultural values and social behaviors across different cultures. This framework was developed to understand how the values in the workplace are influenced by culture. The dimensions include aspects such as individualism versus collectivism, power distance, uncertainty avoidance, masculinity versus femininity, long-term orientation versus short-term normative orientation, and indulgence versus restraint. By analyzing these dimensions, Hofstede provided insight into how various cultures approach issues like authority, teamwork, risk tolerance, and time management, making it an essential tool for intercultural communication and business practices globally.

Economic prosperity, geographical locations, and historical timelines, while relevant to the broader study of cultures, do not directly align with Hofstede’s emphasis on cultural values and social behaviors. The framework does not assess economic metrics or history but rather the foundational attitudes and practices that shape interactions within and between cultures.