Cultural brain · Norms, Conformity & Legitimacy
Descriptive Norm Following
People do what they see others doing, whatever the rules say; conventions become powerful because everyone expects everyone to follow them, and following them signals competence.
An everyday example
'Nine in ten guests reuse their towels' outperforming every environmental appeal.
What it can cost you
Copying visible behaviour that is common but bad; being told a false norm.
Warning signs
- I do it because it is done.
- I would feel incompetent doing otherwise.
One thing to do
Ask whether the visible behaviour is good, not just common; check the numbers behind any 'most people' claim.
Is this happening to you right now?
Describe your situation and get a read across all six brains. No account needed.
Check my situationRelated
Not medical, legal or financial advice. How Decision IQ works
One decision idea a week
One useful idea. No daily drip, no pressure.