The Intersection of Culture and Norms: A Critical Review of Cultural Norms Theory in Journal Articles

Culture and norms are two significant aspects that shape the beliefs, values, and behaviors of individuals in a particular society. Cultural norms theory is a critical concept in sociology that explores the intersection between culture and norms. It aims to understand how cultural norms influence the behavior and actions of people in a given society. In this article, we will review the literature on cultural norms theory in journal articles to gain insight into its significance.

The Significance of Cultural Norms Theory
Culture refers to the shared beliefs, values, practices, and customs of a particular group of people. Norms are the unwritten rules and expectations that guide the behavior of individuals within a society. Cultural norms theory argues that culture and norms are intertwined, and culture influences the development and enforcement of norms. Cultural norms are significant as they help individuals understand what is acceptable behavior in their society and what is not.

Influence of Culture on Norms
Culture plays a crucial role in shaping norms. In many societies, the cultural values and traditions are passed down from one generation to another. These cultural norms guide the behavior and actions of the people within that society. For instance, in some cultures, the norm is to have arranged marriages, while in others, the norm is to date and select a partner independently. These norms are considered acceptable in those societies, and they guide the behavior of the people within them.

Enforcement of Norms
Cultural norms theory also focuses on the enforcement of norms. Norms are enforced through various mechanisms, such as social sanctions, ostracism, and punishment. The enforcement of norms helps maintain order in society and ensures that people conform to the acceptable behavior. For example, in some cultures, a person who refuses to respect their elders may be ostracized or punished. This enforcement helps reinforce the cultural norms in that society.

Changing Cultural Norms
Culture and norms are not static but are dynamic and change over time. As societies evolve, the cultural norms also evolve, and some norms become outdated and are replaced by new ones. For instance, in many western societies, the norm of women staying at home to raise their children has changed to women having careers and being financially independent. This change in the norm has come about due to changing cultural values.

Conclusion
Cultural norms theory is a critical concept that explores the intersection between culture and norms. It helps us understand how cultural norms influence the behavior and actions of individuals within a society. Culture plays a significant role in shaping norms, and cultural norms are enforced through various mechanisms. The enforcement of norms helps maintain the social order and ensures that people stick to the acceptable behavior. However, as societies evolve, the cultural norms also change, showing the dynamic nature of culture and norms.