Page 43 - University English for non-speacalist

behavior when his or her wishes conflict with the
group's wishes. The Japanese axiom that "the nail that
sticks out gets hammered" expresses the importance
that Japanese society puts on maintaining harmony
within the group.

Norms are another component of nonmaterial culture.
They are all the rules, both written and unwritten, that
guide behavior within the group and cover virtually
every aspect individual behavior. Norms are derived
from values. Where harmony is a social value, for
example, an individual member of a group would win
social approval if his or her behavior were compatible
with the group's needs and wishes regardless of his or
her own individual preferences. Actions that are
regarded as "rocking the boat" would result in social
sanctions against the perpetrator of these acts. Norms,

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