A compound index of cultural dimensions: implications and applications

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to offer a compound index of cultural dimensions.

Design/methodology/approach

First, the idea of the compound index is described. Then, by integrating Hofstede's and Inglehart's frameworks, the Compound Culture Index (CCI) is constructed, its scores for different countries are computed, and its robustness is validated. Finally, the theoretical implications and practical applications are discussed and some avenues for future research are pointed out.

Findings

A Compound Culture Index (CCI) on the basis of Hofstede's and Inglehart's frameworks is conceptualized, computed, and validated.

Research limitations/implications

Culture is a very complex concept and cannot be fully grasped by a few dimensions or a dichotomous index. Hofstede's and Inglehart's models have some theoretical/operational differences and correspond to dissimilar time frames that may make their integration imperfect. Due to lack of data, Hofstede's fifth dimension (Timer Orientation) was not included in the calculation of the CCI.

Practical implications

The CCI bridges Hofstede's and Inglehart's cultural frameworks and offers an integrative measure of national culture. In addition, the CCI represents a robust measure that can be conveniently employed in empirical research.

Originality/value

The CCI offers a methodologically novel, theoretically defensible, and operationally robust approach to measuring national cultures.

Citation

Yeganeh, H. (2013), "A compound index of cultural dimensions: implications and applications", International Journal of Organizational Analysis, Vol. 21 No. 1, pp. 53-65. https://doi.org/10.1108/19348831311322533