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The Kogut and Singh national cultural distance index: Time to start using it as a springboard rather than a crutch

Author

Listed:
  • Robbert Maseland

    (University of Groningen)

  • Douglas Dow

    (University of Melbourne)

  • Piers Steel

    (University of Calgary)

Abstract

This Counterpoint investigates the continued relevance of the 30-year-old Kogut and Singh (KS) index of cultural distance. KS was a seminal contribution, highlighting the relevance of cultural differences in IB. However, since then, simplistic replications of the original arguments and index have prevented us from progressing towards a better understanding of how cross-national differences matter. We discuss the mechanisms underlying the construct and how they relate to the algorithm, data, and its critiques. We call for more theoretically informed approaches, highlighting the underlying mechanisms, and specifying which data and algorithms best capture those mechanisms in each research context.

Suggested Citation

  • Robbert Maseland & Douglas Dow & Piers Steel, 2018. "The Kogut and Singh national cultural distance index: Time to start using it as a springboard rather than a crutch," Journal of International Business Studies, Palgrave Macmillan;Academy of International Business, vol. 49(9), pages 1154-1166, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:pal:jintbs:v:49:y:2018:i:9:d:10.1057_s41267-018-0183-3
    DOI: 10.1057/s41267-018-0183-3
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