1. Examine Hofstede’s model of national culture. Are all four dimensions still important in today’s society as it relates to the success of the multinational manager? Why, or why not? Which do you think is the least important as it relates to multinational management? Why?

2. More companies are seeking to fill multinational management positions due to the influx of business growth abroad. If you were offered and accepted a position as a multinational manager, what would you do to personally prepare for the culture of a different country? Where would you seek information? What overall responsibilities would you expect of the job? How do you think the managerial responsibilities would be different from those you would face in the United States?

3. Multinational managers encounter many levels of culture. Which of the culture levels do you think might be the most difficult to manage? Why? Share an example. Which culture level do you think might be the easiest to understand? Why? Give an example of this.

4. In your own words, what is your perception of free trade? Think about the advantages of free trade; what are two benefits that result from free trade? There is also a downside to free trade; what are two disadvantages resulting from free trade? Provide reasoning for your choices.

5. What are the three major economic systems that nations utilize, and what is the role of each? How does each affect and influence individuals, multinational managers, and corporations?

6. How would you define ethical convergence? What are the four basic reasons for ethical convergence? Which might be the most difficult for multinational companies to follow, and why?

7. Describe the four major world religions. What are the impacts of each religion type on an economic environment? What do you think makes religion a concern in societies?

8. If you were a multinational manager, and you encountered an ethical dilemma within the multinational company, what heuristic questions would you use to decide between ethical relativism and ethical universalism? Of the different heuristic questions, which one do you think is most important? Explain your reasoning.