In our society, normality is often seen as a criterion for safety and direction. What the majority believes, feels, and does tends to be considered a standard and guide for community life.
However, this assumption becomes dangerous when what is socially accepted is actually harmful. This phenomenon was studied by Pierre Weil and his colleagues, who developed the concept of "Normosis."
Normosis can be understood as a set of norms, values, and behaviors widely accepted but which, in practice, lead to suffering, illness, or even death. Unlike neurosis and psychosis, which are more evident disorders, normosis acts silently, masked by social consensus, and thus goes unnoticed. Its effects range from psychological and physical harm to devastating environmental impacts.
Many behaviors that were once considered normal are now recognized as harmful. A classic example is smoking. For decades, smoking was associated with status, elegance, and even health. Doctors appeared in cigarette ads, and asking someone not to smoke in an enclosed space was seen as rude. Only with the advancement of research on the harms of tobacco did this behavior start to be questioned, leading to legal restrictions on smoking in public places.
Another current example is the fast-paced lifestyle imposed by the modern productive system. Exhaustion and overwork are often seen as signs of dedication and success, even though they can lead to mental health issues like anxiety and depression. This model, while widely accepted, is clearly harmful.
Normosis can also be seen in social relationships and education. Toxic beauty standards, discriminatory behaviors, and consumerist values are examples of how certain social norms can perpetuate suffering and exclusion. Many of these ideas are so ingrained that those who question them are viewed as eccentric or inadequate.
Moreover, the environmental impact caused by the modern lifestyle is one of the most extensive and destructive forms of normosis. Excessive consumption of natural resources, improper waste disposal, and pollution are behaviors that, although accepted and encouraged by the current economic system, are pushing the planet into an unprecedented ecological crisis.
Identifying and combating normosis requires a conscious effort to reflect on and question established norms. Some actions that can help in this process include:
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Critical Education: Fostering a questioning mindset from childhood, encouraging discernment about what is truly beneficial for both individuals and the community.
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Collective Awareness: Openly discussing the norms that govern society and their real impacts, promoting change through debate and social action.
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Changing Habits: Rethinking consumption patterns, lifestyle, and interpersonal relationships to minimize negative impacts.
Normosis, though silent, is a powerful phenomenon that profoundly influences our lives. Questioning what is considered normal and seeking healthier, more sustainable ways of living is an essential step for the evolution of society and the planet.
