The Grammar of Society — Social Norms

This is NOT an online meeting but an in-person meeting. Reading the book is not required. During the book discussion the leader of the discussion presents the most interesting parts of the book. The great emphasis is placed on discussion. Book Description Why do people follow unwritten rules? Why do some social norms persist for generations while others change surprisingly quickly? And how can entire societies shift their behavior without formal laws? In The Grammar of Society, Cristina Bicchieri explores how social norms emerge, spread, and influence the choices people make every day. Rather than viewing norms as simply traditions or moral values, she explains them as shared expectations about how people should behave—and about what others are expected to do. The book combines insights from philosophy, psychology, economics, and game theory to explain why people cooperate, conform, punish rule-breakers, and sometimes change collective behavior. Understanding social norms helps explain phenomena ranging from everyday etiquette to political polarization, environmental behavior, public health, and cultural change. At this event, we'll use the book as a starting point for a broader discussion about social norms, cooperation, and the invisible rules that shape society. Discussion Topics What is the difference between a social norm, a law, and a personal moral belief? Why do people often follow norms even when they disagree with them? How do harmful social norms persist—and how can they be changed? Which social norms have changed the most during our lifetime? Are online communities creating entirely new social norms? Can societies intentionally design better norms, or do they have to emerge naturally?