Norms work mainly through external sanctions, not internalized motivation

Evidence

Third, we can subject ourselves to a mixture of internal and external inducements. We can be induced by norms that motivate and even sanction behavior. Norms can evidently be internalized, so that we simply act from them without need of sanction. I have little to say here about this possibility, on which even the best arguments for how it works are not very compelling, although the claim that it works seems clearly to be correct. Instead, I discuss norms primarily in their external role, in which their effectiveness depends on the success of sanctions from others. — Russell Hardin, Trust and Trustworthiness, 168

Categorization

• XREF: Internalized norms failing under extreme stress is the core social dynamic of Saramago’s quarantine — this passage notes the same skepticism Hardin carries: the internalization story is not very compelling. — connects to: Sanctions designed for worst-case agents alienate the majority who comply voluntarily — Philip Pettit, Republicanism: A Theory of Freedom and…, 1279; Social norms operate through common-knowledge approval and disapproval rather than enforcement. — Philip Pettit, Republicanism: A Theory of Freedom and…, 1288; Non-domination requires normative reasons for respect, not just legal sanctions — Philip Pettit, Republicanism: A Theory of Freedom and…, 1289 (+4 more)