What Are Norms?

Discover the intricate dynamics of social order in Francesca M. Cancian's enlightening book, What Are Norms?, published by Cambridge University Press in 2009. This insightful 224-page paperback challenges traditional Parsonian theories, offering a fresh perspective that emphasizes shared definitions of reality over mere personal motivations.

Cancian takes readers on a compelling journey into the Maya community, exploring their unique conceptions of good and bad. By examining the social conditions and life customs of the Zinacantan people of Mexico, this book reveals how norms shape behaviors and interactions within communities.

If you are intrigued by social values and want to deepen your understanding of how norms influence societies, What Are Norms? is an essential addition to your reading list. Dive into this thought-provoking examination of social order, and gain new insights into the cultural frameworks that bind us together.