Through my research, I seek to understand the emergence of novel cultural norms and their role in regulating human behavior. For instance, I am fascinated by how shared experiences with our social groups influence what we remember, the goals we pursue, and the things we value. I investigate both the nature of shared experiences—what makes an experience shared—as well as how shared experiences can lead to the emergence of novel cultural norms.
In another line of research, I compare the power of cultural norms and personal values as drivers of human behavior. I am interested in understanding the psychological and contextual conditions that render cultural norms or personal values more powerful.
Finally, I am intrigued by the psychological consequences of cultural norm conflict—that is, how people negotiate their way out of normative conflict, and what the consequences of such conflict are for one's personal identity, values and beliefs.
