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People largely follow rules due to intrinsic respect and social expectations, not just incentives. This research introduces a framework explaining rule-conformity (C) based on respect (R), incentives (I), social expectations (S), and preferences (P).

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Area of Science:

  • Behavioral Economics
  • Social Psychology
  • Sociology
  • Interdisciplinary Social Science

Background:

  • The drivers of rule-following, particularly laws and social norms, are debated.
  • The significance of intrinsic respect for rules remains a key controversy in understanding human behavior.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To develop and test an interdisciplinary framework (CRISP) explaining rule-conformity.
  • To investigate the relative contributions of intrinsic respect, extrinsic incentives, social expectations, and social preferences to rule-following.

Main Methods:

  • Developed the CRISP framework: Rule-Conformity = f(Respect, Incentives, Social Expectations, Social Preferences).
  • Conducted four online experiments with 14,034 English-speaking participants.
  • Analyzed rule-following behavior under an arbitrary, costly rule in anonymous, solitary conditions.

Main Results:

  • 55-70% of participants conformed to an arbitrary costly rule without external enforcement.
  • Rule-breaking demonstrated moderate contagion.
  • Pro-social motives and extrinsic incentives boosted conformity, but intrinsic respect and social expectations were the primary drivers.

Conclusions:

  • Intrinsic respect for rules and social expectations are fundamental to rule-conformity.
  • These factors explain adherence to laws and norms even in the absence of extrinsic incentives or social preferences.
  • The CRISP framework provides a robust model for understanding rule-following behavior.