What aspect of culture does "individual-based incentives" most directly reflect?

Individual-based incentives most directly reflect individualism in a culture. Individualism emphasizes personal achievements, autonomy, and the belief that individuals are primarily responsible for their own success and well-being. In environments where individual-based incentives are prevalent, individuals are often rewarded based on their personal performance and contributions rather than group outcomes. This approach aligns with the core values of individualism, which prioritize the rights and responsibilities of the individual over those of the group.

In contrast, cultures that lean toward collectivism would typically focus on team-based rewards or incentives that benefit the group rather than solely the individual. Hierarchy and power distance, on the other hand, pertain to the distribution of power and authority within a culture, which may influence the structure of rewards but do not directly align with the concept of incentives based around individual performance. Therefore, individualism is the most relevant aspect of culture in the context of individual-based incentives.