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Consumption Symbols as Carriers of Culture: A Study of Japanese and Spanish Brand Personality Constructs

Author

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  • Aaker, Jennifer

    (Stanford U)

  • Benet-Martinez, Veronica

    (U of Michigan)

  • Garolera, Jordi

    (Universitat Pompeu Fabra)

Abstract

This research argues that the meaning embedded in consumption symbols, such as commercial brands, can serve to represent and institutionalize the values and beliefs of a culture. We conducted four studies to examine how the symbolic and expressive attributes associated with commercial brands are structured, and determine the degree to which this structure varies across three cultures. Relying on a combined emic-etic approach, we identified indigenous constructs of `brand personality' (Aaker, 1997) in two non-Anglo cultures (Japan and Spain), and compared these dimensions to those previously found in the United States. The results of Studies 1 and 2 revealed a set of brand personality dimensions common to both Japan and the United States (Sincerity, Excitement, Competence, and Sophistication), as well as culture-specific Japanese (Peacefulness) and American (Ruggedness) dimensions. Studies 3 and 4 extended this set of findings to Spain. Results from these studies also identified brand personality dimensions common to both Spain and the United States (Sincerity, Excitement, and Sophistication), plus non-shared Spanish (Passion) and American (Competence and Ruggedness) dimensions. The meaning of the culturally-common and -specific brand personality dimensions is discussed in the context of cross-cultural research on values and affect, globalization issues, and cultural frame shifting.

Suggested Citation

  • Aaker, Jennifer & Benet-Martinez, Veronica & Garolera, Jordi, 2001. "Consumption Symbols as Carriers of Culture: A Study of Japanese and Spanish Brand Personality Constructs," Research Papers 1668r, Stanford University, Graduate School of Business.
    • Handle: RePEc:ecl:stabus:1668r
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. McCracken, Grant, 1986. "Culture and Consumption: A Theoretical Account of the Structure and Movement of the Cultural Meaning of Consumer Goods," Journal of Consumer Research, Journal of Consumer Research Inc., vol. 13(1), pages 71-84, June.
    2. Aaker, Jennifer L & Maheswaran, Durairaj, 1997. "The Effect of Cultural Orientation on Persuasion," Journal of Consumer Research, Journal of Consumer Research Inc., vol. 24(3), pages 315-328, December.
    3. Belk, Russell W & Pollay, Richard W, 1985. "Images of Ourselves: The Good Life in Twentieth Century Advertising," Journal of Consumer Research, Journal of Consumer Research Inc., vol. 11(4), pages 887-897, March.
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