clusters of stable rules known as social ______ govern social activities and practices based on similar principles displaying regularity?
LectureNotes said clusters of stable rules known as social ______ govern social activities and practices based on similar principles displaying regularity?
Answer:
The term you’re looking for is likely “social norms”. Social norms are the accepted behaviors that individuals are expected to conform to within a particular group, community, or society. These norms are clusters of stable rules that govern social activities and practices, displaying regularity and conformity among members.
-
Definition of Social Norms
- Social norms refer to the informal understandings that govern the behavior of members within a society. They are the unwritten rules that dictate what is considered acceptable or unacceptable behavior and help maintain order and predictability in social interactions.
-
Characteristics of Social Norms
- Stability: Social norms are relatively stable over time, although they may evolve as societal values and beliefs change.
- Regularity: These norms display regularity in how they are followed and enforced within the social group.
- Influence on Behavior: Social norms significantly influence individual behavior by providing guidelines for proper conduct in various situations.
-
Examples of Social Norms
- Cultural Practices: In many cultures, greeting norms such as shaking hands, bowing, or cheek kissing are standard practices for showing respect.
- Dress Codes: Workplace or school environments often have dress codes that align with the expected norms of appearance and attire.
- Communication Etiquette: There are norms around how communication should be conducted, such as using formal language in professional settings or being polite in conversations.
-
Importance of Social Norms
- Social Order: Social norms contribute to maintaining social order by regulating behavior and minimizing conflicts.
- Predictability: They provide predictability in social interactions, making it easier for individuals to understand and anticipate others’ actions.
- Cohesion: By adhering to common norms, individuals strengthen social cohesion and a sense of belonging within the group.
Final Answer:
The term you’re looking for is “social norms”. These are clusters of stable rules that govern social activities and practices based on similar principles, displaying regularity in behavior and practices among members of a society.