Normative theories are frameworks that help us understand how things should be, rather than how they are. They provide guidelines for evaluating actions, behaviors, and policies based on moral principles or societal standards. For example, a normative theory might suggest that justice should be prioritized in legal systems, guiding lawmakers in creating fair laws.
These theories often address questions of ethics and morality, helping individuals and societies determine what is right or wrong. They can influence various fields, including politics, economics, and philosophy. By establishing norms, these theories aim to promote a better and more just society.