An Experiment in Norm Breaking

Most of the time, I avoid acting in defiance by participating in activities that follow social norms. In my daily activities, I might be seen shaking hands with people when they extend their hands, saying hello to people as I pass, saying sorry when there is a disagreement, being a part of a social group, or going out with friends. Some cultures consider shaking hands to be a social custom; failing to do so would be considered disobedience; as such, it is a requirement of society standards. I belong to a social circle, and when I stop participating in their events, like going to parties, the other members think I’m insane or weird. There are series of decisions that I have made based on what my close friends think or do. For instance, my choice for the course and what area to major in characterized the decisions of the friends. Besides, being that all my friends have boyfriends and girlfriends, I became under pressure to also engage in the dating world to avoid being seen as having social or emotional problems. Notably, such decisions were founded on the need to win the approval of my friends. Every individual’s life belongs to himself or herself with inalienable right to live according to his/her wish, act on his/her judgment as well as pursue the values of his/her choosing. As such, people are free to make their decisions and live an individualistic life despite the need for conformity.

The culture of compliance affects the creative and innovative capacities of individuals since it adversely affects their abilities to make individualistic decisions. Besides, the culture also deters liberty and justice in social actions, which in turn would affect one’s potentials. On the other hand, conforming to social norms helps people to gain wider acceptance since such individuals are viewed as compliant with societal standards and hence law abiding. They, therefore receive societal support for their actions.