INT 220 Module 2 Assignment 2-2 Cultural Comparisons (1)

3 INT 220 Module Two Assignment atheist, or agnostic. This group is diverse and includes secular humanists and freethinkers. The U.S. is a religiously diverse country, and it is home to a wide array of religious communities, including Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism, Sikhism, and various Indigenous and New Age spiritual practices. The United States is characterized by religious pluralism, meaning that people of various religious backgrounds and beliefs coexist and practice their faith freely. This diversity is protected by the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which ensures freedom of religion. founded in the 19th century by Allan Kardec (Brown University Library). Candomblé and Umbanda are Afro- Brazilian religions with roots in African spiritual traditions. According to Brown University Library, “When influenced by Afro- Brazilian tradition, Kardecism has given rise to a more popular version of Spiritism in Brazil, which is, however, not officially recognized by the Spiritist Federation.” How to Greet Men and Women Men to Men: In the United States, a common greeting among men is a firm handshake. It's a simple and widely accepted way to greet both friends and acquaintances. Men to Women: Men usually greet women with a handshake, just as they would with other men. However, in more informal or social situations, a nod or a wave can also be acceptable. Women to Women: Women often greet each other with a hug, a handshake, or a combination of both, depending on the level of familiarity and the situation. A friendly hug is common among friends. Women to Men: Women typically greet men with a handshake, especially in professional or formal settings. In more informal situations, they may initiate a hug or a friendly gesture like a wave. Men to Men: In Brazil, it is common for men to greet each other with a handshake, often accompanied by a firm grip and a pat on the back or shoulder. Close friends and family may use a friendly hug and a kiss on each cheek. Men to Women: Men typically greet women with a handshake, but it's common for close friends and family to exchange a kiss on each cheek. In more formal settings, a handshake is more appropriate. Women to Women: Women often greet each other with a kiss on each cheek, starting with the right cheek. Handshakes are also common in formal or business settings. Women to Men: Women may greet men with a kiss on each cheek if they are friends or acquaintances. In business or formal contexts, a handshake is more appropriate. General Negotiating Styles In the United States, negotiations tend to be more task-oriented and focused on achieving specific goals and outcomes. Building relationships is important but usually follows Relationship-Oriented: Building trust and strong personal relationships are paramount in Brazilian business culture. Negotiations often begin with extensive relationship-building and

6 INT 220 Module Two Assignment and accept that power is distributed unequally.” Individualis m Versus Collectivism (IDV) 91 Hofstede Insights, Country Comparison Tool, writes, “The American premise of “liberty and justice for all.” This is evidenced by an explicit emphasis on equal rights in all aspects of American society and government.” 38 Hofstede Insights, Country Comparison Tool, writes, “Brazil has a score of 38 which means that in this country people from birth onwards are integrated into strong, cohesive groups (especially represented by the extended family; including uncles, aunts, grandparents and cousins) which continues protecting its members in exchange for loyalty.” Masculinity Versus Femininity (MAS) 62 The data supports this concept: “The score of the US on Masculinity is high at 62, and this can be seen in the typical American behavioral patterns. This can be explained by the the combination of a high Masculinity drive together with the most Individualist drive in the world ( Country Comparison Tool . Hofstede Insights. n.d.). 49 The data supports this concept: “A high score (Masculine) on this dimension indicates that the society will be driven by competition, achievement and success, with success being defined by the winner / best in field - a value system that starts in school and continues throughout organisational life ( Country Comparison Tool . Hofstede Insights. n.d.). Uncertainty Avoidance Index (UAI) 46 According to Hofstede Insights, Country Comparison Tool, “The US scores below average, with a low score of 46, on the Uncertainty Avoidance dimension. . As a consequence, the perceived context in which Americans find themselves will impact their behaviour more than if the culture would have either scored higher or lower.” 76 According to Hofstede Insights, Country Comparison Tool, “At 76 Brazil scores high on UAI – and so do the majority of Latin American countries. These societies show a strong need for rules and elaborate legal systems in order to structure life.” Long-Term Orientation Versus Short- Term Normative Orientation (LTO ) 26 Hofstede Insights, Country Comparison Tool, writes, “Americans are prone to analyse new information to check whether it is true. Thus, the culture doesn’t make most Americans pragmatic, but this should not be 44 Hofstede Insights, Country Comparison Tool, writes, “This dimension describes how every society has to maintain some links with its own past while dealing with the challenges of the present and future,

9 INT 220 Module Two Assignment centralized decision-making and a stronger emphasis on respecting authority and hierarchy. In contrast, the United States tends to have a more egalitarian approach to business, with flatter organizational structures and more openness to decentralized decision-making. The substantial gap in Individualism scores (Brazil: 38, US: 91) underscores the fundamental difference in values regarding individual versus collective goals. Brazil places a higher value on collectivism, group harmony, and interpersonal relationships in business interactions, while the United States strongly values individualism, personal achievement, and autonomy. Business professionals should adapt their communication styles and leadership approaches accordingly when operating in these countries. Brazil's higher Uncertainty Avoidance score (76) compared to the United States (46) implies a greater preference for rules, structure, and risk aversion in Brazilian business culture. Brazilian organizations may have more rigid procedures and regulations, potentially impacting the flexibility of business operations. In contrast, the United States may be more adaptable and open to risk-taking in its business practices. Entrepreneurs and leaders entering the Brazilian market should be prepared for a potentially more bureaucratic environment. Both Brazil (44) and the United States (26) exhibit relatively low Long-Term Orientation scores, indicating a preference for short-term results over long-term planning in business decisions. While this dimension differs between the two countries, the differences may be less pronounced compared to other cultural dimensions. While there are differences in Masculinity (Brazil: 49, US: 62) and Indulgence (Brazil: 59, US: 68) scores, both countries exhibit moderate levels of competitiveness and a balanced approach to enjoying life. These dimensions may have less impact on business interactions compared to the more substantial differences in Power Distance, Individualism, and Uncertainty Avoidance. In summary, these cultural dimension scores highlight substantial variations in how business is conducted between Brazil and the United States. Being aware of and respecting these cultural differences is crucial for building successful partnerships, navigating business nuances, and effectively conducting business in each country. Building strong relationships, understanding hierarchy, and adapting communication and leadership styles are essential elements for success when doing business across these cultural divides.