Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 10, 2026

Continuous Theta Burst Stimulation of the Posterior Medial Frontal Cortex to Experimentally Reduce Ideological Threat Responses
Published on: September 28, 2018
Culture and concepts of power
Carlos J Torelli1, Sharon Shavitt
1Marketing and Logistics Management, Carlson School of Management, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities Campus, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA. ctorelli@umn.edu
Abstract:
Five studies indicate that conceptualizations of power are important elements of culture and serve culturally relevant goals. These studies provide converging evidence that cultures nurture different views of what is desirable and meaningful to do with power. Vertical individualism is associated with a conceptualization of power in personalized terms (i.e., power is for advancing one's personal status and prestige), whereas horizontal collectivism is associated with a conceptualization of power in socialized terms (i.e., power is for benefiting and helping others). Cultural variables are shown to predict beliefs about appropriate uses of power, episodic memories about power, attitudes in the service of power goals, and the contexts and ways in which power is used and defended. Evidence for the cultural patterning of power concepts is observed at both the individual level and the cultural-group level of analysis.
Related Concept Videos
The Role of Culture
Self Within Cultural Contexts
Power
Impact of Social Context on Individuals
Self-Esteem and Culture
Social Proof