Social Norms

Definition

Social norms are the accepted behaviors and beliefs within a society or group that dictate how individuals are expected to act in various situations. These norms are shaped by cultural, historical, and social influences, and they play a crucial role in guiding interactions and maintaining order within communities, particularly during significant technological developments since 1914.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Social norms can change over time, often in response to technological advancements, such as the rise of social media, which has reshaped communication and interaction.
2. During significant technological developments since 1914, like the invention of the internet, social norms have evolved to adapt to new ways of connecting and sharing information.
3. Different societies can have vastly different social norms, leading to variations in behavior and expectations regarding issues such as gender roles, family structure, and work ethics.
4. Norms can be classified into two categories: folkways (informal norms) and mores (formal norms), which can influence everything from everyday interactions to laws and regulations.
5. Violating social norms can lead to social sanctions, ranging from mild disapproval to severe consequences, reflecting the importance of conformity within a given society.

Review Questions

• How have social norms been influenced by technological advancements since 1914?
  • Technological advancements since 1914, such as the internet and social media, have significantly influenced social norms by changing how people communicate and interact. For instance, social media platforms have created new expectations for public behavior and personal expression. This has led to shifts in societal attitudes towards privacy, relationships, and even activism, demonstrating that technology can reshape what is considered acceptable behavior within a community.
• Discuss the impact of social norms on individual behavior during periods of rapid technological change.
  • During periods of rapid technological change, social norms often dictate how individuals adapt to new tools and practices. For example, as smartphones became ubiquitous, new social norms emerged around their use in public spaces, affecting how people engage in face-to-face conversations. Individuals may feel pressured to conform to these new norms or face social sanctions for not adhering to them. This reflects the dynamic relationship between technology and societal expectations.
• Evaluate the role of social norms in shaping societal responses to technological developments post-1914, considering both positive and negative consequences.
  • Social norms have played a critical role in shaping societal responses to technological developments post-1914 by establishing frameworks for acceptance or resistance. On one hand, positive consequences include increased connectivity and access to information that can empower individuals. On the other hand, negative consequences can arise when social norms foster misinformation or cyberbullying through unregulated online interactions. Evaluating these impacts reveals how deeply intertwined social norms are with technology's evolution and its effects on society.

Related terms

Cultural Values: The shared principles and standards that are considered important by a society, influencing behavior and attitudes.

Peer Pressure: The influence exerted by a peer group on its individual members to conform to the group's expectations and behaviors.

Social Change: The transformation of cultural norms and values over time, often influenced by events such as technological advancements or social movements.