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All In The Mind

Australian Broadcasting Corporation

  • The power of social norms—rules to make or break?

The power of social norms—rules to make or break?

Sunday 9th June 2019

Explore how 'tight' and 'loose' cultures influence human behaviour with Professor Michele Gelfand on 'All In The Mind'.
29 minutes
Informative
Thought-provoking
Engaging
Educational
Eye-opening

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All In The Mind
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ABC Radio
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Mindfulness & Emotional Wellbeing
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Sexual Stigmas & Myths
Mindfulness & Technology in Health
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Tight vs. Loose Cultures: The Hidden Rules Shaping Our Lives

These social norms or informal rules of conduct determine whether we co-operate or come into conflict, at both the collective and individual levels.
Ever wondered why some societies stick rigidly to rules while others seem more relaxed? This episode of 'All In The Mind' dives into the fascinating world of social norms with Professor Michele Gelfand. Hosted by Lynne Malcolm, the conversation unpacks Gelfand's groundbreaking research into 'tight' and 'loose' cultures. These terms might sound odd, but they explain a lot about how different groups behave and interact.
Tight cultures have strict rules and expect conformity, while loose cultures are more permissive and flexible. This isn't just academic talk—these norms impact everything from our daily interactions to how we handle conflict. Gelfand shares eye-opening examples and neuroscientific insights that show why understanding these cultural differences is crucial. Whether you're curious about why some countries handle crises better or why certain workplaces feel more rigid, this episode offers plenty of food for thought.
Tune in to learn how these hidden rules influence your life more than you might think.