NationStates Jolt Archive

OOC: Cultural Dimensions statistics are an idea that comes from some Dutch guy, who lists stats for various countries (http://www.geert-hofstede.com/hofstede_dimensions.php). There are five criteria, and each country is given a score (between 0 and... I'm not sure what, since a vew are ranked a little over 100) for each criteria. A big number doesn't necessarily mean "good" or "bad"; it depends on your perspective and sense of priorities. I found the following definitions here (http://anglosphere.com/weblog/archives/000160.html):


Power Distance Index (PDI) focuses on the degree of equality, or inequality, between people in the country's society. A High Power Distance ranking indicates that inequalities of power and wealth have been allowed to grow within the society. These societies are more likely to follow a caste system that does not allow significant upward mobility of its citizens. A Low Power Distance ranking indicates the society de-emphasizes the differences between citizen's power and wealth. In these societies equality and opportunity for everyone is stressed.

Individualism (IDV) focuses on the degree the society reinforces individual or collective achievement and interpersonal relationships. A High Individualism ranking indicates that individuality and individual rights are paramount within the society. Individuals in these societies may tend to form a larger number of looser relationships. A Low Individualism ranking typifies societies of a more collectivist nature with close ties between individuals. These cultures reinforce extended families and collectives where everyone takes responsibility for fellow members of their group.

Masculinity (MAS) focuses on the degree the society reinforces, or does not reinforce, the traditional masculine work role model of male achievement, control, and power. A High Masculinity ranking indicates the country experiences a high degree of gender differentiation. In these cultures, males dominate a significant portion of the society and power structure, with females being controlled by male domination. A Low Masculinity ranking indicates the country has a low level of differentiation and discrimination between genders. In these cultures, females are treated equally to males in all aspects of the society.

Uncertainty Avoidance Index (UAI) focuses on the level of tolerance for uncertainty and ambiguity within the society - i.e. unstructured situations. A High Uncertainty Avoidance ranking indicates the country has a low tolerance for uncertainty and ambiguity. This creates a rule-oriented society that institutes laws, rules, regulations, and controls in order to reduce the amount of uncertainty. A Low Uncertainty Avoidance ranking indicates the country has less concern about ambiguity and uncertainty and has more tolerance for a variety of opinions. This is reflected in a society that is less rule-oriented, more readily accepts change, and takes more and greater risks.

Long-Term Orientation (LTO) focuses on the degree the society embraces, or does not embrace, long-term devotion to traditional, forward thinking values. High Long-Term Orientation ranking indicates the country prescribes to the values of long-term commitments and respect for tradition. This is thought to support a strong work ethic where long-term rewards are expected as a result of today's hard work. However, business may take longer to develop in this society, particularly for an "outsider". A Low Long-Term Orientation ranking indicates the country does not reinforce the concept of long-term, traditional orientation. In this culture, change can occur more rapidly as long-term traditions and commitments do not become impediments to change.


So... How would you evaluate your nation(s), giving it (them) a score between 0 and 100 for each criterion?

Here's my attempt:

ARIDDIA
PDI 3 - A moneyless economy, combined with an ethos of free sharing and equal distribution, means little or no inequality in wealth. Access to necessaries and luxuries is, in both theory and practice, equal to all... with luxuries being fairly limited. The main disparity is the inevitable contrast between urban and rural living, with more modern amenities available in the former.
IDV 14 - Long-established and deeply rooted communalistic ethics override most concepts of individualism. Local communities are highly meaningful, with neighbourhood, village and district networks of mutual help. Such practices are highly similar to ancestral Indigenous Ariddian traditions, in which the individual's existence is defined through networks of relationships and mutual assistance. The lack of a monetary economy means no profit drive, and no incentive for individualistic enterprise. Nonetheless, the idea of individual achievement remains in such fields as access to particularly interesting and highly qualified jobs (which confer a sense of fulfillment and some prestige, but not a higher salary).
MAS 2 - The communist concept of gender equality, passed on for generations, is firmly established. Indigenous Ariddians had (and have) fairly little concept of gender distinction in the fields of work and rights. In practice, "masculine domination" is virtually unheard if in Ariddia, regarded as a perverse and bizarre anachronism.
UAI 61 - Patterns of life and society have been forged into a consensus which few would imagine altering. As a result, any concept of profound changes to habitual ways of life is generally viewed with incomprehension or suspicion. The status quo is maintained via self-regulation and habit rather than explicit rules.
LTO 85 - The pervading view is that the current system of society has yielded fairness, a reasonable quality of life, and stability; alterations are often viewed as disruptive. Most significantly, a commitment to environmental responsibility precludes short-term, profit-maximising endeavours. Here, too, the absence of a monetary economy is fundamentally important in shaping and maintaining such attitudes.

SAN ADRIANO
PDI 28
IDV 35
MAS 10
UAI 46
LTO 70

More information on San Adriano (http://ns.goobergunch.net/wiki/index.php/San_Adriano).

Partly because of the country's smallness, there is little disparity in income and wealth, and a strong ethic of community mutual assistance has developed.

Valanora
PDI 20
IDV 13
MAS 10
UAI 80
LTO 70

Qazox' scores probably are:

PDI 25
IDV 10
MAS 50
UAI 70
LTO 35

Estimates for Zwangzug:

PDI: 15
IDV: 80 (we put the "antisocial" in socialism)
MAS: 70 or 5. (I'm not sure I understand this statistic fully. The value of 70 reflects a significant cultural tendency to value traditional "masculine" characteristics such as individual achievements, rather than "feminine" concepts such as relationships and empathy. The value of 5 signifies that men's and women's role in society is nearly equivalent.)
UAI: 70
LTO: 70

For Iansisle:

PDI: 76
Despite the revolution, a huge gulf still exists between the new elite and the largely-disenfranchised working poor. The massive cartels of the pre-revolutionary period have been broken and a decent-sized middle class is finally on the rise, but society is still decisively broken into 'haves' and 'have-nots'. President Ranalte's government has been quietly working to repeal many of the social reforms undertaken by the radical National Assembly.

IDV: 38
Although Iansisle of the ancien regime was highly individualistic, the revolution and wars of the revolutionary period have forced the Shieldians into a nationalistic fever. Family bonds are particularly close among the working classes, as often three generations will share the same roof (or, in cases, the same room) and work at the same plant. Still, the capitalistic drive for individual profit largely affects the upper classes and the revolutionary elite.

MAS: 95
Before the revolution, Iansisle was relatively unique for not allowing women the vote. Even afterwards, when the Assembly extended the franchise, a woman's role is seen largely as a homemaker, with serious political, diplomatic, and military jobs being the exclusive domain of men. Even among the industrial working poor, where another salary could make the difference between starvation and life, the male ego seldom allows spouses or daughters to seek employment.

UAI: 15
Over the past ten years, Iansisle has stumbled from one revolution, famine, war, or other crisis to another and people are largely forgetting what peace and stability was like. Revolutionary agitation is seen by the Ianapalis Mob as an effective means to petition for redress, political crises threaten the entire Constitution, not just the government in power, and military coups have been largely accepted by the electorate.

LTO: 82
Before the revolution, Iansisle was a staunchly Catholic, traditional, reactionary country. Although the political landscape is a wildly-shifting dynamo, social values largely emphasize traditional faith, family, and repressed sexuality. Although many radical MAs have tried to curtail the Church's power in Iansisle, they have often met violent outbursts from the Mob and the voters.

Cafundéu:

PDI: 80
IND: 85* (reduced after Ariddia's observation)
MAS: 15
UAI: 66
LTO: 66

Lohanland's are:-

PDI: 90
IDV: 5
MAS: 0
UAI: 95
LTO: 33


The only one that caused problems was the masculinity issue, since Lohanland has neither equality nor male dominance - it is a female-dominated nation :p

We also rated ourselves at www.politicalcompass.org which measures social and economic values. Lohanland is:-

Economic: -1.00 (slightly left wing)
Social: +6.15 (very authoritarian)

Estresse Intenso - Country:

PDI: 98
IND: 70
MAS: 45
UAI: 1
LTO: 11

Estresse Intenso - Landau Institute:

PDI: 10 (doctors and patients live in the same conditions)
IND: 5 (doctors and patients tend to be very close)
MAS: 10
UAI: 75
LTO: 75

The only one that caused problems was the masculinity issue, since Lohanland has neither equality nor male dominance - it is a female-dominated nation :p


Ah. The quirks of the NS world's diversity. ;)

In that case, I suppose you could rate gender inequality.

Cafundéu:
IND: 100


100? That would mean there's no concept of family even. At least not in any meaningful way. No parents looking after their own children, no idea whatsoever of family obligations, no practice of helping your elderly parents, etc...

In the common Cafundéu family, each person has particular responsiblities and functions, with the main focus on improving the economic situation of themselves (not necessary the whole family). Even inside the family, individuals tend to not share their personal gains or goods with his relatives, in a situation of extreme avarice.

Children are dependant of their parents/relatives, being sustained by them. But, apart from that, they won't receive much help, learning to be independant and to act to get what they want.

But, as there are emotional links between the relatives (love for their children and partner, hate for their mother-in-laws and brother-in-laws [in most families]), I understand that the number must be reduced (to 85).

Kontor

PDI 82

IDV 50

MAS 97

UAI 50

LTO 75

Daehanjeiguk:

PDI: 70
IND: 18
MAS: 40
UAI: 85
LTO: 77

Unified Capitalizt States
PDI: 15
IDV: 90
MAS: 0
UAI: 10
LTO: 75

Altanar's ratings would probably be pretty close to this:

PDI: 63 - With the exception of the "liberal period" from the 1970s to late 1990s, Altanar has made little effort to level out income inequalities. The wealth of individuals is typically seen as indicative of their skills, amount of work, and general productiveness and initiative. The governments of the past five years have quietly been slashing or eliminating social welfare programs, and the newly elected administration under Prime Minister Jinella Agaranth intends to continue that trend. However, Altanari governments have always striven to give all citizens "equal and fair" access to political power and representation, despite their income level, and there are stringent laws in place limiting the influence of wealth in the political process.

IDV: 45 - Family, clan and/or ethnic group have always been central to Altanari culture, limiting the individualistic drive. In addition, religion and a cultural and social attitude that emphasizes cooperation, compromise and a collective responsibility for the world blunt the individual drive. However, as Altanar has become a more modern nation and sought economic power, this influence has declined to an extent.

MAS: 3 - Women have always had the same rights and responsibilities as men in Altanari society, and the genders have always been equal. This stems from early Altanari villages and nomadic bands, where everyone had to pull their own weight equally if the village or band was to survive on the steppes of the Altan, where life was anything but an easy experience.

UAI: 85 - The Altanari are not a people who embrace uncertain or ambiguous situations, particularly on a large scale. Law and order, religion and traditions are what they fall back on when those situations emerge.

LTO: 75 - Respecting tradition, honoring one's commitments and working for the long term are central tenets of the Altanari way of life. However, the Altanari strive to give "outsiders" a fair chance at becoming part of the society, as long as they embrace those tenets.

PDI: 68- The primary drawback of Vetalian culture is high income inequality, as private charity and government aid are simply not enough to offset the income gaps created by the country's cutthroat business environment. However, the country is successful at reducing the effects of this gap; even in poor areas, the infrastructure is well maintained and police keep crime to a minimum. It is important to note, however, that the first quartile in Vetalian society is by and large as well off as the middle 50% in most countries.

IDV: 80- Vetalians are extremely individualistic, taught from birth that they serve the community best by acting in their own ethical interest. This creates an oddly successful mix between individual, community, and government that has by and large

Surprisingly, the Tao Te Ching and other works of Taoist philosophy are extremely popular in Vetalia, with the principles embedded in the works influencing the common ideals of Vetalian leadership as well as expounding upon an ideal model for a harmonious society that many seek to emulate.

MAS: 20- Vetalian culture has continued to make strides towards balancing income and opportunities between the sexes. This progress is especially remarkable given the late onset of a women's rights movement (only starting in the mid 1950's after the Revolution) and the long-standing male dominance of their culture. However, the representation of women in business and politics is still far below the
average for most nations, although this is balanced by the dominance of women in science, education, media, and the arts.

UAI: 89- Vetalians are extremely prudent, to the point of being accused of outright cowardice in the eyes of more adventurous nations. They prefer to avoid high-risk situations and instead send heavily armed force to negotiate with hostile powers while they remain secure, preferably a good distance away from the event in question. However, Vetalians do have a strong sense of wanderlust that encourages them to explore the world and learn about its traditions. Vetalians are more likely to be seen abroad as tourists than soldiers.

UAI-Business: 1- Completely opposite the rest of their behavior, Vetalians have a seemingly innate talent for business operations and a culture that encourages financial risk taking, provided it has a commensurate return on investment. Vetalian investors have led the world in developing new financial instruments that are often so esoteric they require a vast amount of additional education to even comprehend.

Shrewd, aggressive, fearless and even cutthroat in business dealings, the Vetalian business culture is one of unrivaled risk-taking and financial wheeling and dealing. This approach apparently works, given the country's success in business and the Vetalian Empire's status as one of the richest, most successful in the world in both aggregate and per-capita terms.

LTO: 15- Vetalians are not keen on tradition, seeing it as a burden that limits their entry in to new markets and new cultures. Voracious consumers of ideas, Vetalia is a hotbed of scientific and academic research as well as a greenhouse for all variety of new philosophies, beliefs, and religions.

The United Kingdom of Brutland and Norden
Power Distance Index (PDI) - 24
Individualism (IDV) - 39
Masculinity (MAS) - 21
Uncertainty Avoidance Index (UAI) - 74
Long-Term Orientation (LTO) - 69

Kura-Pelland Cultural Dimensions

PDI: 33. The distribution of power has become a major issue in recent years, with the government at present being perhaps the most ideological and powerful in the country's history, following an authoritarian-right pattern not dissimilar to the US of RL (although recently the authoritarian tendencies have been neutered). The country has been shaped by violence; it exists as a merger of two states formerly at war (and has since expanded into formerly semi-anarchic lands with no real territorial claim), and the current government was elected largely in response to a terrorist attack. Substantial inequality exists, at least implicitly approved of in general at present, but that approval is by no means universal. The general opinion is that any inequality should have meritocratic origins.

IND: 89. As the country has settled towards liberal capitalism, it is no surprise that individualism has come to the fore to a great extent. There is a growing disdain towards tight-knit organised groups, largely because of the connection with militias and more recently organised gangs or terrorist groups (generally, criminals in Kura-Pelland tend not to act alone, although this is starting to change). One quote in a book written soon after the formation of the state has taken on effectively proverbial status: 'Your first obligation is to look after yourself, your second obligation is to look after those who would look after you, and you have no third obligation'.

MAS: 53. Womens' rights are extremely well-established, but in practice a large number follow what could be considered a 'male' pattern of competitiveness, although the reverse was becoming increasingly true until recently. The general academic opinion is of a nation of 'gender convergence', but it is a convergence somewhat in masculine territory of competitiveness. OOC: I think this is about what Zwangzug's thinking too. I wasn't sure where to put myself, but figured it'd be a little bit below the US (62).

UAI: 55. Kura-Pellandis seek stability on an organisational level, perhaps in reaction to the origin of their nation; security and control are important to the country, and there is a sense of desiring that an action should have a given reaction (for instance, all prisoners serve their full sentence regardless of behaviour in jail). However, on a philosophical level there is a great deal of tolerance, with a substantial atheist population and a great deal of tolerance for alternative viewpoints. Some refer to the country as being 'almost scientific' in its way of thinking, seeking order and structure within a context clearly grounded in the physical world rather than in spiritualist thinking.

LTO: 56. Kura-Pellandis tend to be thrifty, seeking long-term stability on at least a fiscal level (gambling is relatively unpopular, and investment strategies tend not to be short-term in nature). However, self-preservation is also highly important, as befits an individualistic nation, and that is fitting of a short-term orientation. Respect for tradition is largely moderate, with a general perception of learning from history - 'remembering what we have done right, remembering what we have done wrong, and remembering to only do the former again'.

Liverpool England (federal)
(Excludes Protectorate of Ad'ihan)

Power Distance Index (PDI) 60

It's simple in Liverpool England, if you make it, good for you. Otherwise, you're gonna get left behind. Interestingly enough today's UN ranking is related to this: Liverpool England is ranked 19th in the region and 9,820th in the world for Greatest Rich-Poor Divides. The less-well-off citizens do have chances to make it big, but must work hard and will not necessarily have equal opportunity compared to someone with power or money.

Individualism (IDV) 75

Relatively high. Most people tend to be very self-sufficient and rarely work collectively. However, there is still a fairly strong sense of family and extended family.

Masculinity (MAS) 65

While women's rights movements continue to work for more recognition, there are very few female bosses in Liverpool England corporations. Liverpool England's sports institutions also remain mostly male-dominated.

Uncertainty Avoidance Index (UAI) 50

There are multiple set rules and policies in place, however many of these remain ambiguous in themselves. Most people welcome loose definitions and many people are happy to take big risks so long as they're clearly within the abovementioned loose laws and policies.

Long-Term Orientation (LTO) 40

While the government and most administrative offices tend to plan long-term, most people working in organisations, and most organisations themselves, prefer to set plans no longer than two years into the future, instead focussing on doing what they're doing at the moment right.

PDI: 60
IND: 92
MAS: 5
UAI: 27
LTO: 2

subject to change, explainations will come later.

The Celestial Imperia of Nova Nippon

PDI: 99 -The Imperia is heavily stratified - the three major divides:
Imperial- of the vast Imperial Bloodline- every one else is below you - far below you, though you have no power, and live cloistered behind the high walls of the thousand mile square Imperial Court. Save that the Divine One has all the moral authority. THe Imperial Cout is titled The Lightning.
Samurai - of the samurai caste which has divisions within it'self, and the Shogun - His Court titled The Sword - has all the military power
Commoner - again with many internal levels- the highest of the Common people is the taiko, and his Court is called 'The Word'
Drash - equivallent to Japan's ets, or India's untouchables - lowest of the low
Slave - most consider you above Drash...
And upward mobility is almost unknown between the castes, but within the Caste is considerable. It is commonly believed that family gives you your foundation in life but you rise on your own merit. Even the poor are better off than in a vast majority of other nations, and even in the poor disctricts the infrastructure is well maintained and crime is almost noneexistant anywhere in the Imperia given the draconian penalities for criminal acts.

IND: 95 and 5 - Novans have the twin and diametricaaly opposed view of the One and the Many- and there is alwasys a very dynamic tension between their extreme individualism - especially in being true to yourself- and their Collectivism. They worship the exploits and exault the individual, but the minute the individual performs acts that harm the collective they are torn from their pedestles. However team work and cooperative ability is as highly valued and taught from birth among the commoners- to a much lesser but still there degree among the samurai, as is urging to think of the good of the whole. The importance of family working together and susceeding as a whole is very important.

MAS: Varies by what strata of society you are in - yet another daughter born in the Imperial Court or in the lowest levels has little hope of any power, however the current Shogun's heir is female.

UAI: 85 to 15- it all depends...

LTO: one word...Large operatically trained Tenor stands, draws a mighty breath and let forth "Tradition!"*...when its best (meekly whispers the small man standing off to the side)

The start of the wonderful song "Tradition" from Fiddler on the Roof

PDI 41

The Confederated Peoples stresses equality of opportunity and equality before the law. Extensive social programs exist to reduce economic and social inequality. However, substantial income inequality does exist within the economy. Many Members are constitutional monarchies are recognize hereditary noble titles of various sorts, although these confer no significant legal privileges.

IDV 71

There is a strong focus on individual rights and responsibilities, although these rights also include the economic, social and political rights of the individual in a democratic polity. Self-realization is considered an important goal and social policy is designed to best facilitate the self-realization of every individual.

MAS 20

Males still largely dominate the military, the police force and the manufacturing industry. A majority of Deputies and Senators are male. Men are the primary decision makers in a plurality of heterosexual partnerships with women being the primary decision makers in only a small minority and decision making being divided evenly in a substantial minority of cases. Men and women are fully equal before the law and most universities contain as many or more women than men. At least three women have served as heads of the government. Women slightly outnumber men in the liberal arts and half of businesspeople and professionals under the age of 35 are women. 25% of the military, including 15% of combat personnel, are women.

UAI 3

The last fifteen years have seen eight governments, five constitutions, voluntary union with nine formerly sovereign states, the establishment of nineteen colonies in previously uninhabited land, two fundamental demographic shifts, mass religious conversions and a technological and social revolution. Constitutional amendments are featured in annual elections. Legislators can be recalled by their constituents. There is a mechanism for a popular veto of legislation.

LTO 49

There are a number of ancient cultures and traditions which are preserved within the multi-cultural fabric of Confederal society. Most citizens subscribe to one of many faith traditions, some of them quite ancient. The family, honor and community are also values which are considered traditional and important throughout the nation.

Power Distance Index - 61
Pantocratoria has a large, stratified nobility which is exempt from many forms of taxation and personal restrictions by law. Crimes against members of the upper class are also regarded as more serious offences than crimes against ordinary citizens, although all citizens regardless of class are treated as equals before the law when they stand accused of criminal acts. The upper classes are, by and large, substantially wealthier than the rest of the citizenry. However, there is significant income equality between ordinary citizens. Substantial governmental financial support for education, healthcare, and unemployment ensures that all citizens have access to the same high level of services. All citizens regardless of class are equally represented in Parliament.

Individualism - 42
Pantocratorian culture emphasises the family, not the individual, as the primary unit of society. Religious, linguistic, and ethnic groupings are very important in an individual Pantocratorian's concept of himself/herself and his/her place within society. The "moral majority" places greater emphasis on individuals conforming with societal norms than it does on society accepting individuality. Laws tend to be structured to protect the rights of the individual where they do not diametrically contradict societal norms. Individual accomplishment is still highly celebrated, rewarded and well regarded. Individual material aspirations are also encouraged, especially in recent years by the mass media.

Masculinity - 55
(My reading of http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geert_Hofstede and http://www.geert-hofstede.com/hofstede_dimensions.php alike suggest that most people have done this section wrong, misinterpreting it for a measure of gender equality. The original post is incorrect - this isn't supposed to be a measure of gender differentiation. That isn't what it is at all - it is a measure of society's values.)
Pantocratorian society de-emphasises the accumulation of wealth as a goal to a significant extent relative to most Western societies. However, materialism is steadily growing, as it is in most Western societies, and with it an increasing perception of material ambition and competition as virtues.

Since everyone else has done this about gender differentiation, I will do that too as an alternative score - 74
Pantocratorian society is traditionally patriarchal, and while men and women are equal under the law, women by and large conform to societal norms which emphasise traditional gender roles for them. Amongst the upper classes, the difference between these gender roles is even more pronounced and occasionally stretches to the point of inequality before the law in regards to marriage law.

Uncertainty Avoidance Index - 75
Pantocratorians prefer rules and structured circumstances to govern society. Much of these come from religious and cultural tradition. Pantocratorian employees tend to remain longer with a given employer than employees in other societies.

Long-Term Orientation - 88
Pantocratorians place great value on tradition and continuity with the past. The past heavily factors into the perceptions of modern Pantocratorians, whether it is in their assessment of individuals, religious or ethnic groups, or indeed entire nations. The "reflected glory" of one's ancestors is extremely important to the upper classes, and not unimportant to more ambitious members of the ordinary citizenry. Value is placed more on long-term than short-term rewards for effort. Pantocratorians therefore tend to put considerable effort into their educations, their relationships, and their investments, with a view towards long-term rewards from these things.

PDI: 12
IDV: 98
MAS: 3
UAI: 37
LTO: 25

And for "official" statistics...
Civil rights: Superb
Economy: Strong
Political freedom: Excellent
Classification: Left-Wing Utopia

I think that if one already understands something of the nuances of the culture one wishes to define, then the Hofestede Dimensions can be useful for a range of purposes. Otherwise there is a danger that they could be misleading rather than helpful. The following summary will be contentious, in any event, and one might well mount a persuasive argument for entirely different results.

Power Distance Index: 45

The key to Xirnium’s relatively low power distance index is her highly developed social model, which mitigates some of the worst effects of capitalism with a generous and interventionist welfare state. Xirnium possesses perhaps the most burdensome progressive tax scheme in the Europe-Atlantic, yet also boasts one of the highest-quality free public healthcare and education systems in the western world.

Xirniumites expect to be able to find highly paid work, and for a generously state-funded social security scheme to provide a high quality of life for pensioners, the unemployed and the disabled. They expect unions to provide them with the means to bargain workplace agreements fairly with even the wealthiest of employers.

Centuries of parliamentary democracy and universal suffrage have instilled amongst the general population an expectation that power and control of society shall be equally distributed among the members of society. Despite all of these factors, however, Xirnium remains a nation with an entrenched aristocracy and elitist upper class. The haut monde continues to define culture in Xirnium, and remains to a great extent Xirnium’s governing elite.

Individualism: 54

The last century and a half has seen heated ideological debate amongst the proponents of liberal individualism and communitarianism in Xirnium. Liberalism’s legacy may be seen in the highly developed fundamental freedoms that underlie most common law presumptions in Xirnium, and the cynical disdain amongst the intelligentsia for conventional bourgeois collectives like the family. Even so, the Xirniumite people are a remarkably social and collectivist one. Antisocial behaviour is comparatively rare and conformism is a significant phenomenon in society.

A school of thought of growing influence in Xirnium holds that the highest value of the social enterprise can no longer be understood purely in terms of autonomous individual choice, but should promote both the fulfilment of the individual’s capacity for development and the shared search for a common good. Under this view it means something to be “Xirniumite”, and both the individual and society should endeavour to find out what that is.

Masculinity: 5

Xirnium’s lowest Hofestede Dimension is Masculinity. Xirniumite culture tends to hinge strongly towards a consensus-minded, interpersonal relationship-valuing, “feminine” pole. The implication is that, in Xirnium, gender differentiation between men and women is remarkably weak. Insofar as the respective values and perspective of the two sexes are concerned, this implication seems true.

Uncertainty Avoidance Index: 72

Xirnium’s marketplace is a mass of regulations and restrictions, its rules on corporate reporting are strict, and its import and export policies can be inflexible where a prior free trade agreement does not exist. For all her vaunted tolerance, Xirnium can be remarkably hostile to new ideas and alien points of view. To the untrained eye, Xirnium may appear remarkably cosmopolitan, but in fact such openness rarely extends beyond the bounds of Europe. Unique and unusual, even perverse, situations are welcomed, but within structured settings.

Long-Term Orientation: 32

A low Hofestede Dimension in this area indicates the importance of history and tradition in Xirnium and a disinclination to recognise the value of thrift. For a culture with so many motifs that dwell on timelessness and eternity, Xirnium is a remarkably short-term centred nation. Materialistic hedonism is a defining characteristic of the Xirniumite bourgeois, and Xirnium’s aristocracy has made profligacy an art form.

Masculinity: 5

Xirnium’s lowest Hofestede Dimension is Masculinity. Xirniumite culture tends to hinge strongly towards a consensus-minded, interpersonal relationship-valuing, “feminine” pole. The implication is that, in Xirnium, gender differentiation between men and women is remarkably weak. Insofar as the respective values and perspective of the two sexes are concerned, this implication seems true.

Lies! Xirnium is a vicious gynocracy in which men are a brutally suppressed underclass!

The Empire of Belkaros:
PDI- 10- The Emperor, His Advisors, and Community Leaders form something of a hiearchy. The Representatives of the People haev a slightly higher standard of living than their representees.

IDV- 40- Though individualism and self expression are encouraged to a point, the People, the Community and the Empire must come first.

MAS-70- Though the Empire does not officially discriminate against women, a traditional family model in which the mother is frequently home to raise children is very common. However, many occupations are unisex, though some professions are male dominated.

UAI-50- Though Belkans prefer a structured society, they are somewhat open to new ideas, though they often take some convincing. Their progressive social policies are evidence of this tolerance for change.

LTO- 20- The Emperor is open to altering society as his people wish for the most part. Technological innovation often prompts major changes.

((I'm really not sure about the ratings, so I just added numbers which I thought would fit and added some comments which are probably relevant.))

Power Distance Index (PDI) - 58
The differences in wealth actually aren't obscenely large in Knootoss, though they are arguably larger than in the average capitalist western democracy in the Atlantic region. Generally, these difference in income levels are accepted as 'fair' outcomes, and despite the occasional criticism of massively profitable megacorporations very little is done to curb excesses of self-enrichment. In the family, children are generally spoilt and treated as 'equals'. Parents are more likely to negotiate rather than punish. Beating children is disallowed and frowned upon.

Although there is no formal aristocracy, the education system can most charitably be described as an ideological machine designed to create a stratified meritocracy. Children are separated from a young age by 'ability' and different education systems are tailored for the social class they service. This system has generated unprecedented social stability, but it hasn't brought the meritocracy it promises. A few well-known families dominate the higher echelons of the higher education system, subsequently obtaining the "best" job. Sure, education is free, but getting a good education seems to be highly hereditary. The uneducated masses are largely apathetic about politics, allowing for the existence of a social elite which is formed around education and connections rather than "raw" money or business talent.

Individualism (IDV) - 93
The famed Knootian individualism rivals that of Allaneans, though it is tempered by prudence. In the endless suburbs of the capital city, extended families and local communities don't mean much. Social cohesion is extremely low, and people either rely on themselves or on the anonymous bureaucracy of the state. The meaning of organisations like the Church and the Family has largely crumbled. This individuality is integral to in the daily lives of the population and must be considered when travelling and doing business in their Country. Privacy is considered the cultural norm and attempts at personal ingratiating may meet with rebuff.

Masculinity (MAS) - 30
This dimension is hard to place for Knootoss, and in a way it is compareable to the dimension for the Netherlands (14). This relatively low MAS Index value may be indicative of a low level of differentiation and discrimination between genders. In this culture, females are treated more equally to males in all aspects of society. This low Masculinity ranking may also be displayed as a more openly nurturing society.

The double meanings of this rating however make it hard to establish a number for the Dutch Democratic Republic. The "glass ceiling" in Knootoss has been shattered by decades of female Prime Ministers. Women are generally overrepresented in the universities, and females have broken through in business as well, though to a lesser extent. (Pregnancy being a major factor.) Most women have to work part-time to supplement the family income. On the other hand, Knootian culture is significantly more aggressive: they still eagerly guard the husk of their once-mighty colonial empire, and support for war and intervention generally runs high. The welfare and healthcare system are also far less well-developed.

Uncertainty Avoidance Index - 64
Much like Xirnium, Knootoss can be remarkably intolerant beneath a veil of cosmopolitanism and happy-go-lucky drugs and prostitution. "Knootian Values" make intolerance of other Knootians a big no-no, but alternative cultures, economic systems and religions are frequently vilified in the media. People tend to be accepting of differences, but the fairly moderate UAI score does indicate a cultural tenancy to minimize or reduce the level of uncertainty within the population by enacting rules, laws, policies, and regulations to cover most any and all situations or circumstances.

Long-Term Orientation (LTO) - 30-50 range?
Hard one. I really don't know well. Knootians aren't very Confucian and they can be materialistic, but "protestant" values associated with a Long Term Orientation, such as thrift and perseverance, are held high in the Knootian education system. Citizens, especially well-educated ones, are expected to be strong individuals who stand up for themselves and make the best of their situation. Respect for tradition, fulfilling social obligations, and protecting one's 'face' aren't well-developed. Tradition is usually scorned.

Xirnium is a vicious gynocracy in which men are a brutally suppressed underclass!
No, no... Xirnium is an empathetic, non-confrontational gynocracy in which men are a consulted and collaborated-with underclass.

PDI- 40
Otagia has a very large and powerful middle class, most being employees of one of several megacorporate entities with footholds in Otagia. The gap between rich and poor is still rather large, but most of the lower class still lives above subsistence levels. The rich, of course, are obscenely wealthy in typical capitalist tradition.

IDV- 30
Otagian culture emphasizes loyalty to the group, whether it be one's family, one's business, or one's military unit. This is largely reinforced by the nation's universal service requirement, as well as Regent Daniel Quetzal's emphasis on the family and citizenship. However, this does tend to have downsides, such as preventing whistleblowers from coming forward for fear of ostracism, ever increasing gang activity, and annoying bouts of group-think. Self-expression is still encouraged, but again, this tends to fit within well-defined subcultures.

MAS- 25
Otagian citizens have been treated equally under the law for years (mostly due to the universal service requirement, which is indeed universal), but some gender bias still exists, albeit weakly. Certain professions, such as general contracting, are considered odd professions for women, but are certainly not out of bounds, merely under-represented. There are no gender-specific crimes in Otagia, and both spouses in most households are employed.

UAI- 15
The Otagian legal system is very laissez faire, being based primarily on the phrase "Two or more consenting adults." As long as all parties involved are consenting, and no outsiders are harmed, nearly anything is legal, from narcotics to various behaviors considered "deviant," to assisted suicide. Business laws are also similarly loose, with no set minimum wages, and little anti-trust legislation.

Citizens themselves also tend to be open to new ideas, with a wide variety of religions and philosophies considered mainstream. It's not uncommon for your average citizen to switch religions three or more times in his lifetime, or even to embrace two or more at once. Those unwilling to embrace change, whether neo-Luddites, bigots, or religious extremists, are held in a very dim view, and often openly mocked.

LTO- 80
Perhaps ironic for a nation so open to change, Otagians have a great respect for tradition, and can often be very protective of them. Shinto and Buddhism, for example, remains a part of daily life for many Otagians, even if it is merely lip service.

Long term planning is quite common, with much of the population owning stakes in various investments, and pensions for most employees. Most citizens remain employed by the same entity for their entire life, with career changes being extremely rare. Businesses scout for prospective employees during high school or earlier, and will often give scholarships to students in exchange for employment contracts. Even the government tends to think in the long term, with many multi-generational projects (such as the Red Samurai eugenics experiment) underway.

OOC: Cultural Dimensions statistics are an idea that comes from some Dutch guy, who lists stats for various countries (http://www.geert-hofstede.com/hofstede_dimensions.php). There are five criteria, and each country is given a score (between 0 and... I'm not sure what, since a vew are ranked a little over 100) for each criteria. A big number doesn't necessarily mean "good" or "bad"; it depends on your perspective and sense of priorities. I found the following definitions here (http://anglosphere.com/weblog/archives/000160.html):

-snip-



THis is pretty biased towards the Netherlands. No offence to any Dutchmen here, but I could tell it was from Holland even if you had not said so. It pretty much sums up the political ideals of Gender Equality, Idividualism, and Leftism, that seem(to me) to dominate Dutch society.

For the AFNR it is difficult to place exact values, but general tendencies are alike everywhere.

PDI: Rejistania had a strict caste system but since the first revolution, equality was becoming more and more important. Hexen Imdila shocked the world by putting people like Il-Ne'he and Su'he on the roster, but the success made the idea of equality popular better than government programmes would have been able to. With the exception of remote places of Rejistania, 30 is adequate. Exceptions: Midlands 44, Sumumusumu: 19 (it IS a communist nation)

IDV: The rejistanian tradition of valuing community remained rather intact despite all the changes, modern times brought to the nations. Rejistanis still value their ken-te very much. Thus, 24 is a good average here.

MAS: traditionally, the roles in Rejistania were not that gender specific since caste and fate (determined before birth by the choice of the name) didn't distinguish between those. However, spiritually, there always was male and female magic which is why modern times rather lowered the equality than promoted it. 40.

UAI: Modern times brought a spirit of tinkering, getting around somehow, arranging oneself to changes and trying to make the best of things. A rejistani philosopher said laws are either obvious or 'arranged'. And so Rejistanis 'arrange' quite often to find good solutions. 8

LTO: Tradition is not seen as something coming from the past and being static but as something in the life of people and being in motion as well. A certain Carpe Diem attitude which is all-but-protestant prevails. 10

The CRPA

PDI: 40
IDV: 95
MAS: 65
UAI: 65
LTO: 65

cameroi

Power Distance Index (PDI) 5

Individualism (IDV)

sligntly more then half of cameroi live as hermits, most of the remainder live in housholds with more then one sexualy active partner of ALL sexes, so we're really pretty much all over the map on this one. also opportunity for personal gratifications of creating and exploring are held among cameroi societies highest priorities, while at the same time the avoidance of causing suffering and harm is considered the very most fundimental bottom line of morality. so this becomes a somewhat complex question. over all, i would put us at well above the 50th (50/50) percentile, somewhere arround : 85

Masculinity (MAS)

many sentient species in cameroi have other then two physiosexual morphologies, nor is gender considered pertinant to anything beyond sexual gratification and the nurturing of infants : 0 or 1

Uncertainty Avoidance Index (UAI)

people like to not have to worry about anything, but recognize the improbablity of any hierarchy not to directly conflict with such natural realities as exist beyond the coerciveness of sentient society and collective or individual emotional attatchments : 32

Long-Term Orientation (LTO) x

cameroi has a very high long term outlook. this is not however, closely tied to any sort of cultural traditions other then indiginous ones, but rather objective consideration of long term well being of all sentient and nonsentient life forms and the web of life itself.