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emergent-norm theory

an explanation of collective behavior suggesting that the uniformity in action often observed in crowds, cults, and other aggregations is caused by members’ conformity to unique social norms that develop spontaneously in those groups. See universality. [introduced in 1957 by U.S. sociologists Ralph H. Turner (1916–  ) and Lewis M. Killian (1919–2010)]

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Psychology term of the day

November 18th 2024

contrast polarity

contrast polarity

the degree of contrast between two visual elements, particularly figure and background. Contrast can be positive (light objects against dark backgrounds, e.g., a white letter printed upon black paper) or negative (dark objects against light backgrounds, e.g., a black letter printed upon white paper).