What are Geert Hofstede's six general characteristics (dimensions) of national culture that can be used to distinguish between one country and another? Provide case examples for each dimension.
a) Power distance: This dimension focuses on the level of equality or inequality in a society and how it impacts decision-making within organizations.
b) Individualism vs. collectivism: This dimension explores the degree to which individuals prioritize their own interests over the group's interests, or vice versa.
c) Masculinity vs. femininity: This dimension looks at the extent to which a society values traditional masculine qualities (such as assertiveness and material success) versus feminine qualities (such as quality of life and caring for others).
d) Uncertainty avoidance: This dimension examines the extent to which a society feels threatened by uncertain or ambiguous situations and how it deals with them through rules, regulations, and technology.