Social norms: Enforcement, breakdown & polarization

Abstract

The collection of scientific contributions in this special issue explores the role of social norms in guiding collective behavior and the complexities of enforcing these norms in polarized contexts. It examines how norms, while fostering social cohesion, can also contribute to societal divisions, especially in politically charged environments. The included studies highlight three key areas: the enforcement of norms through mechanisms such as information dissemination and leadership; the breakdown of norms in polarized societies, where political affiliations and trust erosion can exacerbate discrimination; and the polarization of norms across political and generational divides, which can hinder collective action and deepen societal fragmentation. Together, these contributions provide valuable insights into how norms are maintained, challenged, or eroded in diverse settings, offering guidance for strengthening social cohesion in the face of contemporary global challenges.