Normative Influence

Normative influence refers to the impact that the attitudes, beliefs, or behaviors of others have on an individual, driven mainly by the desire to fit in or be accepted by a group. In the context of general knowledge, it can shape what people think is important or correct based on societal norms. For example, a person might change their opinion about a popular topic because their friends hold a strong view on it. Essentially, normative influence highlights how social expectations can guide our knowledge and opinions, often leading us to conform to the beliefs of those around us.