Culture as an explanatory variable for the Japanese innovative processes

Abstract

Explores the influence of Japan’s culture on its innovative strengths and weaknesses. Indicates that Japan is good at evolutionary and process innovation but not so hot on inventing. Links this to Hofstede’s cultural dimensions, comparing Japanese with US results. Attempts to link Japanese cultural attributes to rice and its consequent agricultural system and associated human relations. Devotes a section each to Japanese collectivism, power, uncertainty avoidance, masculinity/femininity, and Confucianism. Finds that Japanese culture does not promote individuality or risk‐taking (unlike the US), but does excel at process technology.

Citation

Herbig, P. and Jacobs, L. (1998), "Culture as an explanatory variable for the Japanese innovative processes", Cross Cultural Management: An International Journal, Vol. 5 No. 3, pp. 5-30. https://doi.org/10.1108/13527609810796808