Power Distance, Uncertainty Avoidance, and Technology: Analyzing Hofstede's Dimensions and Human Development Indicators

Abstract

Correlations between Hofstede's dimensions of power distance and uncertainty avoidance and selected indicators of the Human Development Report (HDR) were analyzed. Three communication technology indicators—that is, cell phone subscription, Internet use, and the number of telephone mainlines—were predicted to measure the development of a nation. Results indicate a negative correlation between high power distance and communication technology in terms of the three technologies examined in this study. We found a negative correlation between power distance and human development. Negative correlations were also found between uncertainty avoidance and two cell phone subscription as well as internet use.