Angelo State University

Greek Culture Research

Report

By: Chloe Husted

Memorandum

To: Dr. Nicole Dilts

From: Chloe Husted

Date: April 30, 2018

Subject: Final Research Report

Introduction

For this assignment I thoroughly researched the culture of Greece. In this report I will go over
the following topics: the Hall and Hofstede cultural dimensions, history, gestures, business and
social etiquette, dress code, gift giving, food ways, education, writing style and child rearing.

Hall Culture Dimensions

Context

Greece is a high context culture. This means that in Greece messages are determined by the
context of the environment and most communication is implicit. The people within the Greek
culture know how to read nonverbal cues very well. It is common for Greek people to attempt to
interrupt what another person is saying with their actions as a form of communication. In the
Greek culture people tend to talk loud with a lot of emotion. It is easy to think that the speakers
are yelling and annoyed with one another, but they are speaking with what is considered a
normal tone of voice. Direct eye contact is expected in Greece. It is viewed as a sign of respect
towards the speaker. If this is not done then it is seen as rude and standoffish. Greek people are
known to stand much closer to one another keep direct eye contact during conversation than
most cultures.

Time

Generally the Greek culture employs a polychromic work style. They are used to pursuing
multiple actions and goals at once and when negotiating, they often take a holistic approach.
They may jump back and forth between topics rather than addressing them in sequential order.

Space
Greece is considered to be low territoriality. Greek people tend to have less ownership of space
and boundaries serve no importance to them. Normally in the Greek culture, people will share
territory and ownership with little thought. They also have less concern for material ownership
and there not as much of a sense for stealing belongings.

Hofstede's United States and Greece Comparisons

https://www.hofstede-insights.com/product/compare-countries/

Power Distance

The Power Distance section from the website Hofstede-Insights.com, is described as an unequal
society. Most individuals in this society are not equal with one another and more specifically the
Power Distance is meant to outline these inequalities within the culture.

It is understood in the Greek culture, that hierarchy given to certain members of organizations
should be respected by the members of that society and these inequalities are accepted by the
people within this society. Citizens understand their role in society, whether it is of high or low
standing. No one person is the same in relation to power. With this idea of Power Distance in
mind, people of higher power tend to have more benefits. People of higher power in this culture
communicate their social position and demand that respect be shown. The article claims it is
important for the younger generation to respect the elderly. This can mean that most of the
children in this society tend to care for their parents as they get older. In the workplace, there is
one manager to run the entire office. The origins of the Power Distance go back to the ancient
Greek culture. The score of Power Distance in Greece is at a 60, which is higher than
intermediate.

The United States' Power Distance shares the same idea of inequality between members of
society as the Greek culture. Power in the American culture is person's influence of other
people's ideas and actions. In the American culture, power is described as the dynamic between
people of more and less hierarchy and how they distribute this power within their given positions
in society. The definition of Power Distance in the United States is a renowned practice and
seems to be understood by both the followers and leaders. The Power Distance in the United
States is at a score of 40.

Individuality

This section is described as the “interdependence” people of a society have with one another.
According to Hofstede-Insights.com, the “Individualists” in the society are only concerned about
themselves and people in their immediate family. While the “Collectivist” are mostly surrounded
in a group of people who share similar interests of loyalty.

Greece is a collectivist culture because of the low score of 35 in individuality. The members of
this society grow up believing that members are protected in exchange for their loyalty to the
group. An example of collectivism in the workplace is the hierarchy of an older family member
aiding a younger family member to obtain a job in their company. This is often viewed with a
negative connotation by the individualistic culture. It is perceived as nepotism. Once a member
of the family is hired into the business, favoritism could potentially occur, and animosity may
arise in other members of the staff that are not in the family. From a collectivist standpoint, this
is a beneficial practice, but for the individualist this idea could create problems for others in the
long run.

The Hofstede Insights website refers to the American idea of “liberty and justice for all”. This is
a principle point of the American way of living. The idea highlights the equality of American
citizens given by the government to society. Hierarchy in America is dependent on people of a
lower status to put in their individual work into a company for it to flourish. While a manager
will direct their actions, the team members are responsible for most of the work load presented in
a company. In the United States, managers and staff work together to run a business successfully.
Communication in this society is foreseen as an important aspect of a workplace because
information is constantly being filtered from several members of the team to the manager daily.
This will profit the company if done correctly. The language of this society is informal; therefore,
people do not tend need the support of the hierarchy. It is believed that members of this society
can get much accomplished on their own. When referring to friendships, some men find it
difficult to have a close friendship with other men because most members of this society are used
to interacting with strangers. Americans are also known for being upfront when trying to obtain
information in a business setting. The society is referred to as “exchange-based” and with this
determination in mind people will work to improve their product to receive that promotion for
the hard work and time put into the company.

The two countries are very different because the Greek culture leans towards the collectivist side
of business, while the United States takes an individualist approach. The individualist score in
Greece is only 35. The United States is at a 91. In this section, both countries have contrasting
beliefs.

Masculinity

A high score in the Masculinity section is defined as more competitive and success driven when
conducting business. There is an overall winner at the end. This idea was taught at a young age
in school and carried onto the organizational life. A low score is defined as having Feminine
characteristics that are nurturing others and focusing more on the quality of your life. Being
unique in this type of society could result in little success.

Greece has an intermediate score of 57 in Masculinity because the members of this society are
seen as success driven and motivated. This is an honor for most men in this society to be the
primary income provider of the family and the success is a social value. It is common in Greece
for successful people to be praised by others in the town and are looked up to in high regards.
The article uses the example the Greek tycoon, Aristoteles Onassis, who was known all over as
an example of success at the time of a Masculine society.

The Masculinity in the United States is higher than in Greece with a score of 62. Americans are
known to display the Masculine traits of success individually and in a more upfront manner than
most countries. Americans thrive off the phrase “to be the best version of yourself” and “never
give up”. In this case, most Americans are proud of their success and tend to display them for the
public. The ability to show your success is an important trait in the American society. In the
workplace, employees are able to display their work for others to see and learn from. This is a
teaching method for future employees of the company but is also seen as a way for someone else
to accomplish more than the previous successor. Most people strive to claim the title of “winner”
to uphold a higher status among others. Although this title could result with negative
connotations. Increased inequality is seen as a danger to the American society with the Power
Distance and Individualism in mind.

Uncertainty Avoidance

This idea highlights the uncertainty of what the future may bring the society. Ambiguity and
institutions have created ways to overcome the stress and anxiety that comes with Uncertainty
Avoidance.

According to Hofstede-Insights.com, Greece has the highest Uncertainty Avoidance score of any
other country at a 100. This means that they are uneasy at the idea of not having complete control
of their future. Greece believes that rules, regulations, and bureaucracy is in place for an
important reason. Although this is an important aspect of life, Greeks also believe that it is
important to make time for relaxation and good times as much as possible in their everyday life.
Greeks are seen to be passionate and emotional people.

In the United States, the score is significantly lower at 46 points. There is an acceptance for new
ideas and creativity within this culture. Inventions within technology, business, and food is also
welcomed. Americans are seen to have a higher tolerance for opinions from others in a freedom
of expression aspect. Although, there is a significantly less number of rules presented in this
culture versus other cultures.

Long Term Orientation

This section is about the connection to the past and how we deal with challenges from the
present, as well as, the future. There are normative societies that tend to have a lower score and
prefer traditions from the past, while change is seen usually welcomed. A pragmatic approach
encourages progress in the education system to make way for the future.

Greece has an intermediate score of a 45 in this section. While the United States has a lower
score of a 26, which has a direct correspondence with the normative section. Americans are
known to over analyze new information to check the authenticity. Many Americans believe that
new ideas can have good or bad connotations if they are unaware of the lasting effect it could
have on the society. The article used the examples of abortion, drug use, and weapons. All have
been sensitive topics of discussion for quite some time. This is because most Americans are
drawn to either the negative or positive aspects; there is usually not a grey area of discussion on
these topics. In the workplace, performance reviews are given in a short-term period and this can
result in individuals reaching for fast accomplishments.

Indulgence

The idea that humanity is confronted with the socialization of children and how we do not
become “human” without it is presented. With this topic in mind, how we decide to control our
“desires and impulses” is put into question. The way we were raised in our given society is taken
into question.

The article from Hofstede-Insights.com, claims that Greece has a score of 50, therefore, there is
no way of establishing a difference between the Indulgence and Restraint aspect of this section.

The United States' score was at a 68 and gravitates towards the normative section. The famous
statement in American society is reflected here, “Work hard and play hard”. The idea of putting
in the necessary time to provide an income during the weekdays, tends to result in the occasional
social gathering on the weekends with acquaintances. This idea is meant as a reward of
Indulgence for hard work so there is no need for constant Restraint. Most Americans believe if
you are accomplishing important duties and making sure the people you provide for are taken
care of, then there is nothing wrong with a few nights of fun. There seems to be a good balance
between the two topics, but there is still a large percentage of the population that levitates
towards the Indulgence topic more than suggested.

History

 In the 5th century B.C. Greece was organized into independent citizen states. These states
included Athens, Sparta, Ephesus, Byzantium, and Marseilles. Each state or poleis, which
comes from the English word political, had their own laws, dialect, currency, and
government.
  In the 4th century B.C., Macedon under the rule of King Phillip II and Alexander the great
took control, but in 323 B.C. the land was split.
 In the second century, Hellas became a part of the Roman Empire, and eventually the
Greek poleis in Turkey. At this time the Roman Empire was could not be controlled and
in 324 B.C. Constantine split the empire in half. The eastern half was called
Constantinople and the western part, the Byzantine Empire, collapsed during the German
invasion of the fifth century.
 In 1204, Frankish crusaders attacked Constantinople, which divided the country.
 May of 1493, Constantinople fell to Turkish invaders under the Ottoman branch. For
another 400 years, Greece was under the Ottoman control.
 In the 19th century, the Greek economy was suffering. In 1821, Greece declared
independence. Greece extended its territory into the Ionian Islands, Thessaly, Macedon,
Crete, and the Aegean.
 The German occupation of Greece ended during World War II, but a civil war broke out
between communists and western forces. This caused the Greek government to occupy
the west.
 In 1967, a military known as “the colonels” took over the government forces, which
ended the monarchy.
 In 1975, Greece became a democratic republic and in 1981 it joined the EU, which
adopted the euro in 2001.
 There is still tension between Greece and Turkey to this day.

Gestures

Greeks are known to frequently participate in nonverbal communication and rarely keep still
when speaking. Instead of shaking their up and down to say “No”, Greeks instead raise their
heads backwards and click their tongues. This is usually done in a quick motion. Another
common gesture is for “Come here”. This is indicated by pawing their hand at the air with
fingers and palm pointed downward. It can be confusing because to Americans this could be
portrayed as “Go away” or a way of telling you to move back. When Greeks are wanting to tell
you something, they will tap their index finger to their bottom lip several times in a row. To
Americans this gesture could instead be seen as “Be quiet”. Giving a firm handshake for both
men and women is expected in every first interaction. In the first meeting, women should hug
and kiss one another on each cheek. For men, it is common for a pat on the shoulder or back. If
meeting a family, children are greeted in the same way.
 http://www.explorecrete.com/mycrete/customs/greek-gestures.html

Business and Social Etiquette

Greeks are not considered to be very punctual. If you are happen to show up an hour late to a
meeting that is considered to be still on time. They do not stick to an agenda or follow any
appointments. They enjoy socializing with business associates as friends and dinners are a form
of entertainment in Greece. They can typically take several hours and drinks are served
throughout.
Here are some other tips to follow when visiting Greece:
 Dancing is a big part of Greek culture and in social gatherings you are expected to
join in.
 It is considered rude not to eat everything on your plate.
 It is custom to learn basic Greek, such as hello, goodbye, thank you.
 The history of the Greek culture is very important and you should at least know the
basics.
 In Greece, it is common for people to take their time to complete a task. Do not be
impatient.
 Be social when meeting new people and do not be shy when establishing
relationships.

Dress Code

In Greece there isn't a specific business dress code, but it is advised that people dress in
conservative attire. Men and women are suggested to dress in dark, subtle. Women should avoid
skirts and any kind of provocative clothing. In the summer months in Greece it can get very hot,
especially in the bigger cities. Men can be seen wearing trousers with a shirt, but typically no tie.
Women are lightly dress, but not known to wear tight clothing. First impressions mainly come
from the attire, therefore, this is of great importance to the culture and people. An example of a
traditional outfit for women in Greece is the karagouna, which is a traditional wedding dress that
originated in Central Greece. It is very colorful and considered to be very heavy because it
contains many layers with a black-fringed white underdress. The dress is also layered with a few
coats, which includes an embroidered wool coat, a long white sleeveless coat, a white
embroidered waistcoat, and on top there is a red apron. The women will also wear a head
kerchief with gold coins across the forehead. The bosom in the headdress signifies the wealth of
the family. The traditional island costume for men is more simplified. This includes a white
undergarment that is layered with baggy pants (vraka), a white shirt, sleeveless coat, a jacket,
and a cap with a tassel.
https://people.howstuffworks.com/culture-traditions/national-traditions/greek-tradition2.htm

Gift Giving

 Generally in Greece gifts are exchanged between family and friends on Christmas and
“name days”, which celebrate the birth date of the saint you are typically named after.
 Gifts in Greece should not be expensive. The gifts are given to the person in return of
something and it is known that the other person should give a gift with the same price
value.
 Most of the time the gifts are wrapped in paper.
 Small gifts are taken when the guest first arrives to the house where they were invited
and are opened immediately.
 For dinner parties it is custom to bring flowers, sweets, a bottle of wine, or liquor.
 In Greece, knifes and scissors are meant to be avoided because they symbolize cutting
a person out of your life permanently.
 In a business setting gifts are not necessary and the typical gift exchange does not
happen within the first meeting.
 Food Ways

 Lamb and fish are commonly served in most Greek dishes. Wine and bread are also
served with every meal. In most salads, tomatoes, dill, olive oil, red wine vinegar,
Greek olives, and feta is used.
 Dolmades are vine leaves stuffed with long grained rice seasoned with thyme, dill,
fennel, oregano, and pine nuts.

https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/howto/guide/top-10-dishes-try-greece

 Octopus is a popular seafood dish in Greece. It can be grilled or marinated and cooked
with a wine sauce in a stew or pasta plate.

 Tzatziki is a classic Greek dip served with bread. It includes plain yogurt, cucumber, and
garlic.

https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/howto/guide/top-10-dishes-try-greece

Education

The education system in Greece is divided into three levels: primary, secondary, and tertiary.
There is an additional post-secondary school, which is meant for vocational training. Primary
school is kindergarten and can last 1 or 2 years. Primary school lasts for 6 years from the ages of
6 to 12. There are 2 stages of secondary school: Gymnasio and Lykeion. Gymnasio is a three
year school compared to middle school and then Lykenion is considered vocational. Higher
tertiary school is only for military and the clergy. The undergraduate courses can last 4 years,
postgraduate courses only last 1 or 2 years, and doctorates are anywhere from 3 to 6 years.
 Writing Style

 There are three variations of the Greek alphabet, which include uppercase (early
Greek monumental), Unical script, and lowercase (minuscule script).
 The uppercase style is considered to be the easiest alphabet to learn because all the
letters are uniformly sized and there is some English involved.
 Α, Β, Γ, Δ, Ε, Ζ, Η, Θ, Ι, Κ, Λ, Μ, Ν, Ξ, Ο, Π, Ρ, Σ, Τ, Υ, Φ, Χ, Ψ, Ω
 The Unical style began in the early millennium A.D. and all the letters are uppercase
and no spaces are placed in between each. This type of writing was done on a
parchment and vellum.
 The lowercase style developed in the last 2,000 years. It is considered to be minuscule
writing and most of the greatest Greek works are seen in this style. This is the Modern
Greek writing, but students must learn the uppercase as well if they would like to
understand the language.
 α, β, γ, δ, ε, ζ, η, θ, ι, κ, λ, μ, ν, ξ, ο, π, ρ, σ, τ, υ, φ, χ, ψ, ω

Child Rearing

The gender of a baby is determined before a child is born. This is predicted by the overall shape
of the mother's stomach. After the birth, the mother must avoid the evil eye (a prominent image
in the Greek culture), as the new mother is a source of jealousy. In the Greek culture a child
must not develop this “bad eye” and it is very common for people to spit lightly at the child to
avoid arrogance. The mother and baby must also not be seen 40 days after the birth and if they
do decide to go out they must be blessed by a priest first. Many families will name the firstborn
child after the grandparents as a sign of respect for their elders. Young girls are taught throughout
most of their lives how to cook. They are given recipes that have been handed down for years in
the family. Family is a big part of the Greek culture. It is common for extended families to live
close to one another for support in raising the children.

Summary

This assignment helped me gain a better understanding of my Greek culture and the people that
make up my family. I grew up with a wonderful father and a loving aunt, uncle, and cousin who
were born and raised in Athens, Greece. Sadly my grandmother, Mara, died when I was young,
therefore, I do not recall our interactions. I have been told that she loved me very much and
called me her “Κουκλα”, which means doll or “my beautiful one” in Greek. All of these people
are extremely influential, supportive, and their perseverance inspires me daily. I consider myself
very lucky to be surrounded by such a loving Greek family. Opa!
 Works Cited

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https://www.theguardian.com/world/2010/may/06/brief-history-greece-peter-jones

Ancient Greek Writing. Ezinearticles.com. Retrieved from http://ezinearticles.com/?Ancient-

Greek-Writing---3-Important-Writing-Styles&id=5548731

Business etiquette. BusinessCulture.com. Retrieved from http://businessculture.org/southern-

europe/business-culture-in-greece/business-etiquette-in-greece/

Communication in Greece. WordPress.com. Retrieved from:

https://jhagan92.wordpress.com/2013/10/07/communication-in-greece/
instruction2.mtsac.edu/rjagodka/BUSM_51_Project/Negotiate_html/Greece.htm

“Country Comparison.” Hofstede Insights, Retrieved from http://www.hofstede-

insights.com/country-comparison/greece,the-usa/.

Greece Gift Giving Customs. Giftypedia. Retrieved from

http://www.giftypedia.com/Greece_Gift_Giving_Customs

Greek Gestures. ExploreCrete.com. Retrieved from

http://www.explorecrete.com/mycrete/customs/greek-gestures.html

Hall's cultural factors. Changingminds.com. Retrieved from

http://changingminds.org/explanations/culture/hall_culture.htm

How Greek Traditions Work. Howstuffworks.com. Retrieved from

https://people.howstuffworks.com/culture-traditions/national-traditions/greek-tradition2.htm

Sethulingam, S. Greek Child rearing techniques. Retrieved from

ttps://prezi.com/hxww83iyh8hk/greek-child-rearing-techniques/

Top 10 dishes to try in Greece. BBC: Good Food. Retrieved from

https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/howto/guide/top-10-dishes-try-greece