Behavioural economics is a relatively new field that combines insights from psychology and economics to understand how individuals make decisions. Traditional economic theory assumes that individuals are rational and always make decisions that maximize their own self-interest. However, behavioural economics challenges this assumption by showing that our decisions are often influenced by social norms and other external factors.
Social Norms and Economic Decision-Making
Social norms are the unwritten rules and expectations that govern our behaviour in society. They can range from simple customs like saying 'please' and 'thank you' to more complex norms like gender roles and cultural traditions.These norms are deeply ingrained in our society and can have a significant impact on our economic decision-making. One of the key ways in which social norms influence economic decision-making is through peer pressure. We are social creatures, and we often look to others for guidance on how to behave. This can be especially true when it comes to financial decisions. For example, if all of our friends are buying expensive designer clothes, we may feel pressure to do the same, even if it goes against our better judgment. Social norms can also affect our perception of risk.
In traditional economic theory, individuals are assumed to be risk-averse, meaning they prefer a guaranteed outcome over a risky one with potentially higher payoffs. However, behavioural economists have found that our perception of risk is often influenced by social norms. For example, if everyone around us is investing in a particular stock, we may perceive it as less risky and be more likely to invest in it ourselves.
The Power of Social Norms
One of the most significant impacts of social norms on economic decision-making is their ability to override our own self-interest. Traditional economic theory assumes that individuals always act in their own self-interest, but behavioural economics has shown that this is not always the case.Social norms can be so powerful that they can cause us to act against our own best interests. For example, imagine you are at a charity auction, and you bid on an item that you don't really want because everyone around you is bidding on it. In this scenario, the social norm of generosity and giving may override your own self-interest, causing you to make a decision that goes against your better judgment. Social norms can also have a significant impact on our spending habits. In today's consumerist society, there is a strong social norm to constantly upgrade and buy the latest and greatest products. This can lead to individuals spending beyond their means and getting into debt, all in an effort to keep up with societal expectations.
The Role of Social Norms in Financial Markets
Social norms not only influence individual decision-making but also have a significant impact on financial markets.The behaviour of investors is often driven by social norms, which can lead to market bubbles and crashes. For example, during the dot-com bubble of the late 1990s, there was a strong social norm that investing in technology stocks was the key to financial success. This led to a frenzy of buying and drove up stock prices to unsustainable levels. When the bubble eventually burst, many investors lost significant amounts of money. Social norms can also play a role in herd behaviour in financial markets. When investors see others buying or selling a particular stock, they may feel pressure to do the same, even if it goes against their own analysis and research.
This herd behaviour can lead to market volatility and irrational decision-making.
Overcoming the Influence of Social Norms
So, how can we overcome the impact of social norms on economic decision-making? One way is through education and awareness. By understanding how social norms can influence our decisions, we can become more aware of our own biases and make more rational choices. Another approach is through nudging. Nudging is a concept in behavioural economics that involves subtly influencing people's behaviour without restricting their freedom of choice. For example, placing healthier food options at eye level in a cafeteria nudges people towards making healthier choices without forcing them to do so. Finally, diversity can also play a role in overcoming the influence of social norms.When we are exposed to a diverse range of opinions and perspectives, we are less likely to be influenced by social norms and more likely to make decisions based on our own values and beliefs.