One of the most significant lines of cultural division is between the East and the West. Characterized by distinct histories, religions, geographies, and climate, both of these regions of the world have given rise to unique cultures that shape the way its people live and interact in the world. This dividing line is definitely important in helping us tease apart the different approaches that originate from different regions in the world, but its also important to recognize the nuance that not all Eastern cultures are the same, nor are all Western cultures. So while I speak in general terms about the “East” and the “West”, I recognize that they are not homogenous entities, but for the sake of this blog, it makes most sense to analyze the cultural differences at the macro level, which means sacrificing some of the more nuanced aspects of the cultures.

Eastern Culture

In terms of Hofstede’s cultural spectrum, the paper found that Eastern cultures tend to be more collectivist, have a higher power distance, a generally weaker uncertainty avoidance, and fall somewhat in the centre of masculinity and femininity.

Western Culture
On the other hand, Western cultures were found to be more individualistic, have a lower power distance (on average, but with significant variation), are in the mid to strong uncertainty avoidance range, and fall ever so slightly more on the masculine side.