Cross‐cultural management: six perspectives

Abstract

Purpose Different researchers look at cross‐cultural management from different perspective. By identifying six perspectives, this study aims to help researchers identify lacuna and helps the field by identifying under‐researched areas. Design/methodology/approach Through a literature review of papers directly or indirectly linked to cross‐cultural management, cross‐cultural psychology and studies on stereotyping. Findings The paper starts with a riddle. Why has the UK, a culturally homogeneous society, experienced 18 racial riots since the 1980s whereas Malaysia, a culturally heterogeneous society, has experienced none? This fact can be understood through six perspectives. These are named the classical approach, the anthropological approach, the psychological approach, the stereotyping approach, the knowledge management (KM) approach and the systems thinking approach. Originality/value There are three key points. First, understanding perspectives allows researchers and practitioners to know where they and others are coming from. Second, it allows researchers to identify under‐researched areas. Third, the point is made that classical studies were focused on understanding the past while emerging fields (KM and systems thinking) is more geared towards shaping the future.