MEASURING AND USING THE HOFSTEDE DIMENSION SCORES OF INUIT (NUNAVUT) CULTURE

Abstract

This study examines the boundary conditions of Hofstede’s national culture model in the Nunavut Inuit context. It explores how measured scores might support intercultural understanding. Using the Value Survey Module 2013, data were collected from Inuit (n = 222), non-Inuit (n = 244), and first-generation Canadian (n = 57) employees of the Government of Nunavut (GN) (n = 523). The six Hofstede dimensions were calculated using Hofstede’s method with demographically matched samples (n = 64, both groups)(power distance [8], individualism [61], masculinity [26], uncertainty avoidance [44], long-term orientation [65], and indulgence [66]) and compared to predictions based on generational Inuit emic knowledge captured in Inuit Societal Values, Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit Principles, and Maligarjuaq Laws. The findings showed considerable alignment between the predicted and measured scores. This suggests that the Hofstede model might still be helpful in cultural training, organizational development, intercultural communication, and negotiation by the GN, despite the growing criticisms of the model, its limitations, and the availability of other models. Some of the study’s statistics were of concern. These included sample sizes based on Cohen’s d (for all except power distance and masculinity) as well as the Yamani equation, which found that the matched sample sizes (n = 64 for Inuit/non-Inuit groups) would only result in an 87.7/87.8% confidence interval. Cronbach’s alphas were also very low or negative, which is a concern if the ecological fallacy is discounted (the VSM 2013 is not an isomorphic instrument). Although there was no significant difference in response styles between the two groups, some differential item functioning (DIF) was flagged, especially for the masculinity (3 items) and indulgence dimensions (2 items). Measurement invariance was completed despite the inadequate sample size (n = 64), showing overall poor results. The GN's continued use of the model should acknowledge these issues. At the same time, it would be desirable to have an iterative emic study to create a possibly broader and more specific model for Nunavut, ideally by an Inuk scholar who would bring their cultural lens to the research.