Morality regulated by legality: psychological behaviour management, the nudge movement and its critique
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.32980/MJSz.2025.1.96Keywords:
legality and morality, psychological behavior control, nudge movement, attitude change, cognitive dissonance, abolition of segregation, behavior change, law and psychologyAbstract
The study examines the intricate relationship between legality and morality, with particular attention to psychological behavior control and the nudge movement. Using the example of the 1954 abolition of segregation, it demonstrates that legal regulations alone can drive societal changes, by changing human attitudes. Contrary to Roscoe Pound's socio-legal perspective, social psychologist Elliot Aronson argues that it is not attitudes that change behavior, but rather the change in behavior that transforms attitudes. Applying Aronson's cognitive dissonance theory, the study highlights that through altering their behavior, people are compelled to reevaluate their prejudices and beliefs. In modern societies, methods aimed at influencing behavior are receiving increasing attention, particularly in the legal and political spheres. The nudge movement, introduced by Richard H. Thaler and Cass R. Sunstein, proposes techniques that subtly guide individuals' decisions without restricting their freedom of choice. This study also explores the potential of green behavior-based regulation, illustrating how norms, default settings, and simplification can be applied in the transition to a sustainable economy. The study concludes by addressing the criticisms of psychological behavior control, particularly noting that these techniques cannot replace structural reforms but should be integrated with psychological analysis.
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