Aesthetics and Cultural Differences

Abstract

Hofstede (1994) outlines five dimensions upon which national cultures can be differentiated from each other. These dimensions are described. A study in which nations were clustered into cultural groups is reported. It is suggested that culture may be linked to aesthetic preference and that it is important to understand these links when designing products for global distribution. Research into cultural-aesthetic links is reported, along with a summary of links established to date. It is concluded that there is much research still to be done. This represents a major challenge which human factors as a profession must embrace if it is to move beyond usability and contribute to the creation of products which are a positive pleasure to own and use.