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The power distance index (PDI), developed by Dutch social psychologist Geert Hofstede, is an index that measures the distribution of power a...

Self-Respect and the Power Distance Index

By Shady 3:34 PM 0 comments
The power distance index (PDI), developed by Dutch social psychologist Geert Hofstede, is an index that measures the distribution of power and wealth between individuals in a business, culture, or nation. It is the degree to which unequal distribution of power is socially accepted within a society. Power distance inequality in a society is very important aspect of national culture. For example, Sweden (PDI 31) differs from France (PDI 68) in the way its society handles inequality. This table summarises the differences between a high power distance index culture and a low one.

With a slightly high score of 80, Sri Lanka is a relatively hierarchical society. This means that people accept a hierarchical order in which everybody has a place and which needs no further justification. Hierarchy in an organisation is seen as reflecting inherent inequalities, centralisation is popular, subordinates expect to be told what to do and the ideal boss is a benevolent autocrat. 

 SELF-RESPECT


Once a consultant I was a student of was describing how things were at his time when he was a student. He was trying to explain why they grew up without having the need to tell any lie nor conform to corruption. Why they never did any stuff that was below them nor even thought those things appropriate.And why today people take bribes left, right and center and cannot go a day without lying. Why they didn't respect themselves enough to not do thing that were unworthy of a person in their status. He boiled it down to a fundamental difference in power distance index. Students then were shown respect and were treated as individuals with an equal or greater capacity of mind. They were not required to stand up when a senior or a teacher comes - like what is practiced in state faculties today. They had lots of respect for themselves so much so that their pride and prestige disallowed them from partaking in any vice.

 We should NOT be bringing up children on the basis of obedience and dependency. We should  bestow upon them the values of individuality and reinforce their innate God-given sense of respect and dignity. It's okay in taking pride in yourself and your upbringing. This sense of pride is your first line of defence against the evils and vices of society. Treat yourself with dignity and respect and you'll be soon finding yourself drawn towards good and intolerant of evil in yourself and your actions.

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