How we change what others think, feel, believe and do |
Rules
Explanations > Values > Rules Rule sets | What are rules? | So What?
Values can be interpreted as just another instance of the broader class of rules. Values can be personal rules or shared with others, for example as social norms or company values. Rule setsOther sets of rules include:
What are rules?Rules are the 'lubricants of society'. They let us do things and prevent us from doing wrong, which in social terms usually means harming others in some way. They help us decide and lead to harmony with others as we all obey the same rule-set. Mandating actionRules can mandate action, telling you what you must always do in particular circumstances. Mandatory rules can also tell you what you must not do. For example:
Mandatory rules are usually precise and clear. They also often have specific punishments that will be applied if rules are not followed. Encouraging actionSome rules are not strictly mandatory, but they do act to encourage certain actions. For example:
The reality of encouragement rules can vary as some people avoid or even react against conforming while others embrace the ideal. Allowing actionRules can also simply give permission for particular actions, giving you the choice of what to do. For example:
Bounding actionRules can also provide boundaries, where you are permitted to act but only within certain limits or constraints. For example:
Boundaries can be hard, with clear definitions. They can also be quite soft when the boundaries are unclear and consequences for breaking the rules are progressive. Defining criteriaRules need not always define action. They can also require consideration of specific criteria when making decisions. For example:
Setting prioritiesRules can also set priorities, saying what is more important or less important. These are useful when there are conflicts within decisions, helping people choose the most important things. For example:
Rules about rulesA final category about rules is the rules for creating, sustaining and changing rules. These 'meta-rules' are critical for ensuring rules work in practice. Nothing brings rules into disrepute quicker than people not following them and nothing happening in consequence. For example:
So what?Understand rules within any group where you engage with others and either follow these or be prepared for the consequences. You can also use rules to get people to take actions. Quoting rules at people can be very effective in persuading them to conform. See alsoGroups, Social Norms, Conformance Principle |
Site Menu |
| Home | Top | Quick Links | Settings | |
Main sections: | Disciplines | Techniques | Principles | Explanations | Theories | |
Other sections: | Blog! | Quotes | Guest articles | Analysis | Books | Help | |
More pages: | Contact | Caveat | About | Students | Webmasters | Awards | Guestbook | Feedback | Sitemap | Changes | |
Settings: | Computer layout | Mobile layout | Small font | Medium font | Large font | Translate | |
You can buy books here |
And the big |
| Home | Top | Menu | Quick Links | |
|
Site Menu |
| Home | Top | Quick Links | Settings | |
Main sections: | Disciplines | Techniques | Principles | Explanations | Theories | |
Other sections: | Blog! | Quotes | Guest articles | Analysis | Books | Help | |
More pages: | Contact | Caveat | About | Students | Webmasters | Awards | Guestbook | Feedback | Sitemap | Changes | |
Settings: | Computer layout | Mobile layout | Small font | Medium font | Large font | Translate | |
| Home | Top | Menu | Quick Links | |
|