Understanding Social Norms

Social norms are informal, unwritten rules that guide acceptable behavior within a community or society. These norms often arise to address societal challenges, yet their origins can be complex, as demonstrated in the context of Colombia, where historical influences such as Iberian culture have shaped social behaviors. The podcast highlights a specific anti-social norm prevalent in Colombia: the inclination to avoid reporting wrongdoing, summed up by the phrase 'don't be a toad.' This anti-snitching sentiment is deeply ingrained and interconnected with the social dynamics of Colombia, influenced by its history of violence and conflict.