Which of the following countries is typically seen as having high power distance?

High power distance refers to the extent to which less powerful members of a society defer to more powerful members. Societies with high power distance tend to have hierarchical structures where authority is respected and inequality in power and wealth is more accepted.

China exemplifies high power distance due to its historical and cultural perspectives that prioritize respect for authority and elder figures. Traditional values, influenced by Confucianism, emphasize harmony, respect for authority, and family lineage, creating a social order where power disparities are expected and accepted. In China, organizational hierarchy is strongly observed, with decisions typically made by those at the top without much consultation with lower levels.

In contrast, countries like Norway, Germany, and Australia generally display lower power distance. They promote egalitarianism and encourage open communication between different levels of society and organizational structures. In these cultures, questioning authority and valuing employee contributions across hierarchies is more commonplace. This context highlights why China is typically seen as having a high power distance compared to the other options presented.