Abstract

This chapter examines the notion of norm conforming within a broadly rational-choice-theoretic perspective. It begins by discussing the notion of externalizing a norm in more detail. It then presents some examples of salient considerations that undergird our disposition to treat norms as instrumental reasons. It focuses, in particular, on the desire to avoid sanctions: both tangible sanctions and intangible sanctions. Finally, this account of norm conforming is applied to formal norms, moral norms, and social norms.