Pinto's F and G cultures

The structures formed by Pinto are not based on cultural dimensions, but on the rules and codes within a culture. A structure of rules and codes can be described with concepts such as 'many' or 'little', 'fixed' or 'loose', 'detailed' or 'global'. Dividing cultural dimensions into structures and rules provides an infinite list. To clarify this, Pinto has developed a continuum of structures with Fine-mesh (F) and Coarse-mesh (G) structures. Between the two extreme structures there is a mixed (M) structure, this is the combination of the F and G structure on different aspects.

The G is from the Dutch translation of the word: Coarse = Grof.

Fine-mesh (F): a predominantly full, detailed and rigid structure of codes of conduct and communication rules between people. You could say that for almost every situation there are rules for communication and behaviour. The individual has much less room to set his/her own standards.

Coarse-mesh (G): broader, looser and more global system of rules and codes. The individual him/herself can translate the general rules into his own specific situation and thus has more freedom of action.

Belonging more to the F than to the G structure (it’s always more or less) depends on 4 factors:

1. Welfare
2. Religion
3. Social environment
4. Genetic material of the individual

For all 4 factors, development (pos or neg) is possible. Belonging to the F rather than the G structure has far-reaching consequences for behaviour, communication, experience and perception.

Pinto's method is very similar to the classification of cultures of Edward T.Hall. Where the G-culture bears similarities to the low context culture. The F-culture bears similarities to the high context culture. 

CONSEQUENCE FOR THE MOTIVATIONAL THEORY?

Maslow and Pinto

Understanding the major differences between the structures (F and G) also has consequences for Maslow's famous pyramid. Compulsory cost in motivational theory within management training courses, with which Maslow organizes the hierarchy of human needs. This pyramid of Maslow is valid for the western (G) oriented people (12% of the world population), but not for all humanity. The Non-Western (F) part of the world (88%) has different needs than the Western and a different (F) hierarchy of needs (see figure below). The pyramid describes different categorized levels of needs in human life. In order to reach the next level, the previous needs have to be fulfilled. Pinto noticed that Maslow’s pyramid illustrates the basic needs for people in G-structured cultures and the model does not describe cultures with F-structure at all. By building a pyramid model for F-cultures), he illustrates the cultural differences existing even in the stage of basic human needs. Where income, belonging to social groups, social status, self-respect and creativity are important in G-cultures, politeness, honourable behaviour, appreciation of others and avoiding a loss of face rises up in F-cultures.

Maslow hierarchy of needs G-culture orientated

Pinto hierarchy of needs F culture orientated

Need to please Politeness, living in accordance with plates and role within the group, mutual assistance in the group, indirect and implicit communication

Good name Honourable behaviour, visible wealth, appreciation by others, protection of family honour.

Honour Preventing and combating loss of face, shame, disgrace and honour tarnishing.

This in turn can reflect towards the family and must be avoided.