Cross-Cultural Cognitions and the Venture Creation Decision

Abstract

Theories of social cognition, information processing, and expertise provided the foundation for a cross-cultural model of venture creation. Using data from seven countries, we found support for the cognitive model. In particular, arrangements, willingness, and ability scripts were found to be associated with the venture creation decision; some two-way interactions involving arrangements scripts were significant; and individualism and power distance were associated with willingness and ability scripts and with the venture creation decision, through interaction with arrangements scripts. Results support and extend theory and provide preliminary evidence of consistency in cognitive scripts across cultures.