Convention

Convention

A convention is a set of agreed, stipulated, or generally accepted standards, norms, social norms, or criteria, often taking the form of a custom. Conventions are prevalent in a wide range of contexts, including law, politics, society, and language.

Types of Conventions

Social Conventions

Social conventions are the unwritten rules that govern the behavior of individuals within a society. These include manners, etiquette, and other forms of social conduct. Social conventions help maintain order and predictability in social interactions.

Legal Conventions

Legal conventions are practices or procedures that, while not legally binding, are followed by legal institutions and authorities. These conventions can influence the interpretation and application of law.

Political Conventions

Political conventions are established practices followed by political entities. These include the procedures for the formation of governments, the conduct of elections, and the functioning of legislative bodies. Political conventions can be crucial in maintaining the stability and functionality of political systems.

Linguistic Conventions

Linguistic conventions refer to the agreed-upon rules and norms that govern the use of language. These include grammar, syntax, and semantics. Linguistic conventions are essential for effective communication.

Importance of Conventions

Conventions play a critical role in maintaining order and predictability in various aspects of life. They provide a framework within which individuals and institutions can operate, reducing uncertainty and facilitating cooperation.

Related Pages

• Social norm
• Custom (law)
• Etiquette
• Political system
• Grammar

See Also

• Protocol (diplomacy)
• Tradition
• Standard (metrology)