Cultural Differences - Hofstede's 6-D Model

I found an analysis online (https://www.hofstede-insights.com/country/finland/) that explores Finnish culture through the lens of Hofstede’s 6-D Model, the analysis can be used to give a useful overview of the drivers of Finnish society, as well as culture norms in comparison to other world cultures.






The power distance dimension discusses the individuals stance on equality in society and is defined as “the extent to which the less powerful members of institutions and organisations within a country expect and accept that power is distributed unequally." Finland scored 33, meaning that they are more independent. Hierarchy is used for practicality, rights are seen as equal/ Power is decentralised and relies on everyone to contributed. Citizens feel entitled to being consulted about changes. Control of society is disliked.


The next dimension is individualism which has been defined as “the degree of interdependence a society maintains among its members”. It is related to whether people´s self-image is defined as “I” or “We”. In Individualist societies are defined as those who look after themselves and their direct family only. Whereas collectivist societies are ‘in groups’ that take care of them in exchange for loyalty. Finland, with a score of 63 is an Individualist society. Individuals are expected of their families and themselves.


A high score in the next dimension demonstrates a masculine society, which is characterised by being driven by achievement and success, as well as competition, with success being defined by the 'winner'. Whereas a low score is seen as a feminine society in which values in society are caring for others and quality of life. This field has been defined as “the fundamental issue being what motivates people, wanting to be the best (Masculine) or liking what you do (Feminine).” Finland scored 26 and is therefore considered a Feminine society. Feminine societies “working in order to live”, people value equal rights, solidarity and quality in their lives. Conflicts can be resolved by compromise. Incentives such as free time and flexibility are cherished. Status is not shown or flaunted.


The dimension Uncertainty Avoidance has to do with the way that a society accepts the fact that the future is uncertain: can we try and control the future or just let it be? It has been defined as “The extent to which the members of a culture feel threatened by ambiguous or unknown situations and have created beliefs and institutions that try to avoid these”. Finland scored 59 and thus has a high preference for avoiding uncertainty and therefore risk. Countries with high uncertainty avoidance have morals, codes, beliefs and behaviour that are rigid and strict. Tolerance is low towards negative behaviour and ideas.


Long-term orientation describes “how every society has to maintain some links with its own past while dealing with the challenges of the present and future” Normative societies which score low on this dimension, prefer to maintain time-honoured traditions and norms while viewing societal change with suspicion. Those with a culture which scores high, on the other hand, take a more pragmatic approach: they encourage thrift and efforts in modern education as a way to prepare for the future.


With a low score of 38, Finnish culture can be classified as normative. which is evident in yearly celebrations, use of the sauna etc. The Finnish demonstrate a lot of respect for traditions.


Indulgence is the next field and has been defined as “the extent to which people try to control their desires and impulses”, based upon how they are raised. Weaker control is called “Indulgence” and stronger control is “Restraint”. The score of 57 demonstrates Finland is a highly Indulgent country. This high score shows willingness to realise impulses and desires and are seen to be able to enjoying life and having fun. There is an emphasis on leisure time in which citizens act and spend money as they see fit.