Today, I discussed for a long time with Diana about cultural differences between Singapore and Switzerland… it was really interesting. There are a lot of topics where oppinions are somewhat diametral. One concept we stumbled upon is Power Distance: The acceptance of power and wealth (and their demonstrations) by lower-ranked people. Read on…
The concept was first defined by Geert Hofstede. Citing Wikipedia:
Small vs. Large Power Distance - the extent to which the less powerful members of institutions and organizations expect and accept that power is distributed unequally. Small power distance (e.g. Austria, Denmark) expect and accept power relations that are more consultative or democratic. People relate to one another more as equals regardless of formal positions. Subordinates are more comfortable with and demand the right to contribute to and critique the decision making of those in power. In large power distance countries (e.g. China) less powerful accept power relations that are more autocratic and paternalistic. Subordinates acknowledge the power of others simply based on where they are situated in certain formal, hierarchical positions. As such the Power Distance Index Hofstede defines does not reflect an objective difference in power distribution but rather the way people perceive power differences. In Europe, Power Distance tends to be lower in Northern countries and higher in Southern and Eastern parts. There seems to be an admittedly disputable correlation with predominant religions.
The work of Hofstede and his team doesn’t end at this definition, however. They go as far as actually establishing an index of the power distance and other factors in more than 50 countries. Values range from 104 (Malaysia) to 11 (Austria). Singapore scores 74 points, whereas Switzerland is at the lower end of the list with 34 points. Could that be an explanation why swiss federal counsellors travel with public transport like normal people?
One example which stroke me was the role of a class principal. In primary school, the best students of a class (in terms of grades) will receive the title of class principal, which is a highly respected position. The pupil has several responsibilities, amongst others to list misbehaving classmates and report their names to the teacher.
Among swiss schoolchildren, the thought of reporting other’s bad actions to the teacher has a very negative connotation. There exists even a special word for it, am Lehrer ga rätsche. Many would be horrified to assume the duties of a class principle. The act of publishing other’s mistake could result in the loss of many friends and even expose you to dangers… In that respect it seems that the Singaporean society is much more ethical that Swiss children :-)
Cultural schock? No, but interesting discussions, and maybe a little more understanding of each other.