What are norms?
Subtitle: a study of beliefs and action in a Maya community
By: Francesca M. Cancian.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Published: 1975
Place of publication: London; New York
Language: eng
Number of pages: 212
Subjects: Tzotzil Indians -- Social life and customs; Social values -- Case studies; Zinacantán (Mexico) -- Social life and customs
Description: "What are Norms? challenges the traditional Parsonian theory of the basis of social order and proposes a theoretical perspective that emphasises shared definitions of reality rather than personal motivation. The book begins by describing conceptions of good and bad in a Maya community. Then it explores how such normative beliefs relate to the actions of individuals and the organisation of society. Parsons' theory is not supported by previous research on attitudes and behaviour. The final chapter describes a new theoretical approach to norms and society that provides a better explanation of how people's norms relate to their actions and how norms change"--Publisher description.
Notes: Bibliography: p. 201-207.
Includes index.