John W. Meyer (sociologist)

John W. Meyer is a sociologist renowned for his work on how organizations and societies are influenced by global ideas and norms. He studies how countries adopt certain structures, policies, and practices because they are seen as legitimate or modern internationally, rather than solely for practical reasons. His research highlights how global cultural trends shape national identities and institutions, leading to similarities across different countries. Meyer’s work helps explain the spread of ideas like democracy or education reform, emphasizing the power of shared cultural models in shaping social systems worldwide.