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On Injunctive Norms: Theory and Experiment

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  • Juan-Bartroli, Pau

Abstract

Recent studies have shown that individuals’ behavior is sensitive to their perceptions of socially appropri-ate behavior. In this paper, I introduce a theory of injunctive norms in which individuals evaluate the social appropriateness of a given behavior using universalization reasoning. The theory allows one to compute the social appropriateness of any behavior without relying on individuals’ expectations, preferences, and actual behavior. Furthermore, it can be applied to a wide range of interactions and rationalize several observations unaccounted for by theories of social preferences. I test the theory’s predictions with evidence from past studies and new data from a lab experiment.

Suggested Citation

  • Juan-Bartroli, Pau, 2024. "On Injunctive Norms: Theory and Experiment," TSE Working Papers 24-1515, Toulouse School of Economics (TSE).
    • Handle: RePEc:tse:wpaper:129160
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Social Norms; Morality; Lab Experiments; Social Preferences;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C91 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Design of Experiments - - - Laboratory, Individual Behavior
    • D91 - Microeconomics - - Micro-Based Behavioral Economics - - - Role and Effects of Psychological, Emotional, Social, and Cognitive Factors on Decision Making

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