What is implied by high scores in Uncertainty Avoidance on Hofstede's scale?

High scores in Uncertainty Avoidance on Hofstede's scale indicate a cultural tendency to experience discomfort with ambiguous situations and uncertainty. This means that societies with elevated levels of Uncertainty Avoidance typically prefer structured conditions and clear rules to minimize unpredictability in their environments. People from such cultures often seek security and stability, which can lead to a resistance to change or new ideas that may introduce ambiguity or potential risks.

In contrast, a lower score on this scale would generally represent a willingness to embrace ambiguity and a more flexible approach to new ideas and changes. Additionally, individualism and innovation are not directly tied to the concept of Uncertainty Avoidance as they relate more to other dimensions of Hofstede's framework, such as Individualism vs. Collectivism or the level of Innovation in a culture. Therefore, the implications of high scores in Uncertainty Avoidance primarily center around a cultural inclination towards control and predictability in facing life's uncertainties.