Summary
Highlights
A two-dimensional cultural map of the world is introduced, resembling a European geographical map with Europe at the center, North Europe to the north, Africa to the south, East Asia at one extreme, and Latin America at the other.
The north-south axis represents individualism versus collectivism. Northern European nations are highly individualistic, emphasizing individual rights and accountability, while African nations are more collectivist, prioritizing loyalty to the group or tribe. This also correlates with low versus high power distance, where arguing respectfully with superiors is acceptable in Northern Europe but can lead to job loss or severe repercussions in Africa and South Asia.
High power distance in the southern part of the world often correlates with rulers who have little accountability, leading to higher corruption levels. In contrast, Northern Europe emphasizes legal equality and accountability for everyone, regardless of social standing, reinforcing individual rights.
The east-west axis, termed 'monumentalism' versus 'flexibility,' describes different self-perceptions. In Latin America and Africa, the self is seen as a proud, unchanging monument. Conversely, in East Asia (Japan, Chinese-speaking countries), pride is discouraged; people are expected to be flexible, focus on continuous improvement, and believe that effort in education leads to personal betterment.