Guiding Sociotechnical Systems toward Value-Norm Equilibrium Blue Sky Ideas Track

Conference Paper (2026)
Author(s)

Nirav Ajmeri (University of Bristol)

Marina De Vos (University of Bath)

Davide Dell’Anna (Universiteit Utrecht)

Pradeep K. Murukannaiah (TU Delft - Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science)

Vivek Nallur (University College Dublin)

Luis G. Nardin (École des Mines de Saint-Étienne)

Munindar P. Singh (North Carolina State University)

Research Group
Interactive Intelligence
DOI related publication
https://doi.org/10.65109/NSZQ3158 Final published version
More Info
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Publication Year
2026
Language
English
Research Group
Interactive Intelligence
Pages (from-to)
3869-3875
Publisher
ACM
ISBN (electronic)
9798400723179
Event
25th International Conference on Autonomous Agents and Multiagent Systems, AAMAS 2026 (2026-05-25 - 2026-05-29), Paphos, Cyprus
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Abstract

Values and norms are complementary constructs that undergird prosocial behavior in sociotechnical systems (STSs). Whereas values are intrinsic motivators for prosocial behavior, norms are extrinsic motivators for meeting mutual expectations. An STS is in equilibrium when the values of its member actors and the norms that govern it align with each other. Such an equilibrium is not permanent as actors join or leave the STS, and their values and norms evolve. In general, an STS must be guided toward equilibrium by systematically refining the norm specifications and influencing the values of its member actors. We formulate the challenges involved in building systematic methods to detect misalignment and guide the STS toward, and maintain, value-norm equilibrium.