democratic vs Hierarchical cultural patterns

In democratic cultural patterns, people enjoy pluralism, participation, and equal access to cultural amenities. A hierarchical culture has clearly defined ranks or bureaucracies in the order of power and importance. Some areas that have tension from both democratic and hierarchical cultural structures are age and education.

In the 21^st century workforce, generations work together, including the latest gen-Z. The age difference often results in tension due to cultural and organizational expectations. For instance, the hierarchical pattern requires older adult employees to follow a youth manager regardless of the age difference. In a democratic pattern, both older adult and youth employees are entitled to equal opportunities and benefits regardless of different socio-physiological needs. Thus, the conventional respect for elders is threatened by hierarchical and democratic cultural patterns. One way to reconcile this is through cultural education to create awareness of current cultural changes. That way, all employees will understand and be welcoming to one another across either cultural pattern.

Education also creates hierarchies in that there are levels of education. A graduate with a doctorate is considered highly educated compared to a college graduate. However, in some job markets, A skilled candidate is highly competitive. Hence, job market conditions may create a democratic cultural pattern. This tension may be resolved by ensuring vacancies are clearly defined for both education and skill set levels. That way, job seekers will apply only for the relevant positions.