# A Norm Emergence Framework for Normative MAS -- Position Paper

**Authors:** Andreasa Morris-Martin, Marina De Vos, Julian Padget  
**arXiv:** [2004.02575](https://arxiv.org/abs/2004.02575)  
**Date:** 2020-04-06  
**Summary page:** https://www.summarizepaper.com/en/paper/2004.02575v1/

## Key points

- Norm emergence in multiagent systems (MAS)
- Implicit norms in traditional MAS
- Normative MAS involves explicit norms
- Emergence of norms in normative MAS
- Agents' involvement in norm synthesis
- Ostrom's eight principles and collective decision-making processes
- Framework for the emergence of norms within a normative MAS
- Agent participation and influence over governing norms
- Incorporating agent input into the process

## Summary

The paper titled "A Norm Emergence Framework for Normative MAS -- Position Paper" by Andreasa Morris-Martin, Marina De Vos, and Julian Padget explores the concept of norm emergence in the context of multiagent systems (MAS). In traditional MAS, norms are implicit and agents use simplistic decision-making mechanisms. These implicit norms are unconsciously shared and adopted through agent interaction. A norm is considered to have emerged when a predetermined percentage or threshold of agents follow it. In contrast, normative MAS involves explicit norms that are deliberately shared through communication or informed by an authority. Agents in normative MAS decide whether to adopt a norm based on recognition or when a relevant situation arises. The authors argue that a norm can be considered to have emerged in a normative MAS when a certain percentage of agents adopt it. The paper further proposes that agents themselves should be involved in the process of norm synthesis, allowing them to influence the norms governing the MAS. This approach aligns with Ostrom's eight principles, which emphasize the importance of involving individuals in collective decision-making processes. To facilitate this involvement, the authors present a framework for the emergence of norms within a normative MAS. According to this framework, participating agents can propose or request changes to the existing normative system. Special-purpose synthesizer agents then formulate new norms or revisions in response to these requests. Once approved, the normative system is modified to incorporate the new norm. Overall, this paper highlights the significance of involving agents in norm synthesis within a normative MAS and presents a framework that allows for agent participation and influence over governing norms. By considering both implicit and explicit norms and incorporating agent input into the process, this framework contributes to understanding how norms emerge and evolve within multiagent systems.