What is a "norm"?

A norm is defined as a socially accepted standard of behavior. This concept is central to understanding how societies function, as norms guide individuals on how to act in various situations, influencing everything from everyday interactions to societal expectations. Norms can encompass a wide range of behaviors, including manners, customs, and laws, which help maintain social order and cohesion.

When individuals conform to established norms, they contribute to the stability and predictability of social interactions, making it easier for people to coexist. In essence, norms serve as guidelines that help to regulate behavior within a society, shaping the ways individuals interact with each other and the expectations they have for behavior in different contexts. Therefore, the identification of norms as socially accepted standards of behavior illustrates their crucial role in the social fabric.