Swastika: One symbol, many views

One of the basic aspects which determine certain culture and describe it, is its system of symbols. Symbols encourage solidarity and unity within certain group of people we call the culture. Its members are familiar with their meanings and know how to use them. There are
generally well-known symbols (concerning for example national or religoius cultures) which may be understood as official, e.g. a flag (Union jack), an anthem (Marseillaise), an animal(Kiwi in New Zealand), a plant(Cedar in Libanon), objects (crescent moon and star for Muslim religion) and many more...
One of such examples may be swastika aka crux gamata, today the name hakenkreuz or hooked cross is probably the most spread in Western world. This ancient symbol may be recognized across nations and comunities throughout the whole world. But each of them may interpret this exact cross in completely different way. In Asia it´s high posibility people will see it as positive symbol of luck and wellness, while in Europeans it would surely evoke unpleasant idea of past Nazi menace.
Wikipedia provides quite interesting and deep explanation of what swastika is. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swastika

I would be delighted if you write some comments on this topic. I believe it could enrich our discusion about culture and Geert Hofstede´s theories. I´m very interested in this problem. We all have own culture since we came from several countries and may offer different points of view...
How do you feel about hooked cross? How do you call it? What meanings does it have for you and your culture?

Thanks for any comments! Martina