New Institutionalism

New Institutionalism is a social science approach that examines how institutions—such as laws, organizations, or norms—shape human behavior and decision-making. It emphasizes the importance of understanding historical context, formal rules, and shared practices that influence individuals and groups over time. Unlike old institutional theories that focus solely on formal structures, New Institutionalism considers both formal rules and informal social norms, highlighting their role in creating stability, change, and power dynamics within societies and organizations. It helps explain why institutions persist or adapt and how they impact social, political, and economic outcomes.