Groupthink Can Be Very Powerful in Interdependent Cultures, Such as in Japan

question 19

Multiple Choice

Groupthink can be very powerful in interdependent cultures, such as in Japan, where the drive toward group harmony is especially strong. Despite this tendency toward groupthink, Japanese companies tend to be highly effective. According to the textbook, what practice might help to explain this?

• A) Colleagues often engage in staged debates and someone plays "devil's advocate."
• B) After the CEO states his or her opinion, he or she asks employees to engage in an open discussion.
• C) CEOs meet individually with employees to discuss the relevant issues before a decision is made.
• D) CEOs make decisions alone.