Which norms matter? Revisiting the ''failure'' of internationalism

Scholars tend to believe either that norms are relatively inconsequential or that they are powerful determinants of international politics. Yet the former view overlooks important effects that norms can have, while the latter inadequately specifies which norms matter, the ways in which the norms have an impact, and the magnitude of norm influence relative to other factors. Three different norms on the use of force from the interwar period varied in their influence during World War II. The variation in state adherence to these norms is best explained by the cultures of national military organizations that mediated the influence of the international rules. This analysis highlights the challenge and importance of examining the relative effects of the often cross-cutting prescriptions imbedded in different types of social collectivities.