Representing the Concept of Culture: Has the Time Come to Replace the Layered Onion?

Abstract

On the heels of the GLOBE publications, a flurry of debate has ensued between cross-cultural researchers. An issue of contention
included the correlation of 'should be' vs. 'as is' measures and outcomes. This debate included a cry of clearly defining the concept of culture. Social
scientists generally agree the word "culture" presents definitional problems, is difficult to measure, and operates in a complex context with
institutional, geographic, economic, and other factors. The underlying intent of this paper is to answer the question, 'What is culture?' This paper
offers a theoretical mental model of culture and a synthesized definition.