Power distance

Common card · No. 412192

Power distance is the extent to which unequal distributions of power are expected and accepted within societies, organizations, and institutions. It is studied in cross-cultural psychology and organizational studies. It is one of the dimensions in Geert Hofstede's cultural dimensions theory, developed from his research on employees of IBM in different countries. Hofstede's Power Distance Index (PDI) assigns comparative scores to countries according to the degree to which less powerful members accept unequal power relations; the scores are relative and are intended for comparison between societies. Cultures and organizations described as having high power distance tend to have more centralized authority, pronounced hierarchies, and greater acceptance of autocratic or paternalistic leadership. In lower-power-distance settings, relationships between superiors and subordinates tend to be more consultative, authority more decentralized, and employees more willing to question or make suggestions...

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