Social facts

Definition

Social facts are patterns of behavior, values, and norms that exist outside of the individual but exert influence over each person's actions. They are societal rules that guide how people in a community live, work, and interact with each other.

Related terms

Norms:

Expectations and rules by which a society guides the behavior of its members.

Values:

Deeply held beliefs about what is good, right, and appropriate in a culture.

Culture:

The shared beliefs, customs, practices, and social behavior of a particular nation or people