Bachelor of General Studies (BGS) Degree Practice Exam

Cross-cultural contradictions often arise from differences in what?

1. Employee skill sets

2. Market demand

3. Home and host countries' ethical standards

4. Corporate strategies

The correct answer is: Home and host countries' ethical standards

Cross-cultural contradictions frequently emerge from the differing ethical standards upheld by home and host countries. Each culture has its own values, norms, and practices that inform what is considered acceptable or unacceptable behavior. These ethical standards can vary widely, leading to misunderstandings, conflicts, or perceived contradictions when individuals or organizations operate across borders. For instance, a business from a country with strict environmental regulations might face challenges in a nation where such regulations are lax. The corporate practices that are standard in one culture may not only seem inappropriate but can also lead to accusations of unethical behavior in another. Thus, the differences in the ethical framework can create significant roadblocks in international relations and business operations, highlighting why these discrepancies are critical to understand in a cross-cultural context. The other choices address factors that can influence business operations, but they do not encapsulate the core of cross-cultural contradictions. Variations in employee skill sets, market demand, and corporate strategies might affect business outcomes but are not fundamentally grounded in the ethical frameworks that guide behavior in different cultures.