Social norm
From Wikinfo
Etymology: the word norm comes from the latin word norma which means "angle measure" or (lawlike) "rule".
A social norm or cultural norm is the expected behavior in a given situation, the custom. Important norms are called mores. Deviance from social norms are enforced by both formal and informal social control. Violations of mores are punished with severe sanctions.
In matters of the mind, one who has common sense is following the norm, is normal. In matters of behavior one who follows the norms of society is a regular guy or a right guy. One who does not is considered eccentric if the violation is considered harmless, perhaps a criminal if considered dangerous.
In social situations norms are unwritten (and often unstated) operating rules that govern people's behavior resulting in a smooth interpersonal relations. Norms are most evident when they are not followed or are broken. This is often experienced when an individual finds themselves in a foreign country, dealing with a strange culture where the norms are different.
External links
- Here are some suggested social norms for Wikis: http://c2.com/cgi/wiki?WikiSocialNorms
References
- Adapted from the Wikipedia article, "Norm" http://www.wikipedia.org/wiki/Norm September 27, 2003
