Social norms
Social norms are informal rules and expectations that influence the behavior of people in groups and societies.
Definition
They define what is considered acceptable, desirable, strange or forbidden in a given environment. They can organize cooperation, but also perpetuate pressure, conformism and inequality. Understanding norms helps distinguish your own choice from acting under the influence of a group.
Key ideas
- Group expectations
- Conformity
- Informal rules
Practice and life
When making an important decision, write down: what I want, what the group expects and what will happen if I choose differently.
Common misconceptions
It is a mistake to accept a norm as truth just because it is common. The second mistake is to ignore the costs of rejecting norms altogether.
> A social norm is most powerful when it looks like the natural order of things.
> — Guru Element
Questions for self-reflection
- What norm influences my behavior?
- Do I choose it or do I just submit?
- How to maintain autonomy without unnecessary conflict?