Indulgence vs. Restraint

 19 January, 2025

__________

This week's class was about Hofstede’s dimension Indulgence versus Restraint. This dimension explains how much a society allows people to enjoy life, have fun, and express emotions freely, or how much these things are controlled by social rules and expectations.

The Netherlands is a more indulgent country. People value free time, hobbies, and enjoying life. Leisure is important, and it is normal to spend money on fun activities like traveling, eating out, or festivals. Dutch people also express emotions quite openly. Smiling, joking, and speaking freely are common, even in the workplace. There is a strong feeling that you control your own life and choices.

Japan, on the other hand, is more a restrained society. Enjoying life is not seen as unimportant, but it is more controlled by social norms. Leisure time is often secondary to work and responsibilities. People are expected to behave modestly and not show too much emotion in public. Saving money is valued more than spending it on fun, and professionalism is often linked to seriousness rather than friendliness.

In daily life, this difference is very visible. In Dutch shops or workplaces, smiling and casual conversations feel natural. In Japan, service is polite and respectful, but emotions are more reserved. This does not mean people are unhappy, but enjoyment is expressed differently.

The video explained that indulgence and restraint are not about good or bad societies, but about how cultures handle happiness, pleasure, and control. It helped me understand why Dutch culture feels more relaxed, while Japanese culture focuses more on discipline and self-control. Both have strengths, and learning this made me more aware of how culture shapes everyday behavior.

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