Domain #5: Descriptive, Injunctive, and Sacred Norms

Abstract

In the proposed research, we integrate two important means through which culture shapes peopleÕs decisions and behavior: social norms and sacred values. We propose that peopleÕs mental representation of their culture involves descriptive norms (shared understandings about what people do), injunctive norms (shared understandings about what people ought to do), and sacred beliefs (shared understandings about what people must do without reference to the instrumental logic used in everyday life). In this research, we will the conditions under which people emphasize descriptive norms, injunctive norms, and sacred values to a greater extent, and how people react when others violate these three types of norms. We will also investigate whether these three types of norms are inter-related, and how these three types of norms can be changed. This research aims to contribute to a richer understanding of culture by expanding on theories of culture, improving understandings of cultural differences, and analyzing cultural change.

Document Details

Document Type
DoD Grant Award
Publication Date
Feb 25, 2019
Source ID
W911NF1810091

Entities

People

  • Michael J. Morris

Organizations

  • Army Contracting Command
  • Columbia University
  • United States Army

Tags

Fields of Study

  • Psychology

Readers

  • Agent-Based Social Robotics and Mobile-Assisted Learning in Virtual Environments.
  • Theoretical Analysis.