This paper tries to answer the question "What happens to linguistic norms in language standardization or normalization?" Before addressing this topic, certain notions of the theory of norms have to get introduced. First, the reader should be aware of the difference between the notions "linguistic rule" and "linguistic norm", the first being a theoretical concept in the theory of grammar, and the second being a theoretical concept of sociolinguistics. For the differences between these concepts cf. Bartsch (1982).A norm consists of a norm content, which states a regularity, a norm character, which states whether the norm is obligatory or optional, with possible gradations of normative force, and norm agents, such as norm authorities, norm subjects, norm promotors, norm enforcers, norm beneficiaries. A norm concept is a norm content which conceptualizes an expected regularity, together with the character of the norm. A norm formulation is a formulation of a norm concept. A norm codification is an official formulation of a norm concept that exists as a norm in one of the ways defined below. Norm promulgation is the activity of introducing a norm as valid for a population.A norm concept can exist as a norm in several ways, with respect to some population or other: A norm concept exists (in a narrower sense) as a norm for a population, if the norm concept regulates a behaviour (praxis) of the population. If the population has an external attitude towards the norm concept, i.e. follows it only under pressure, it exists for them as a prescription. If the population has internalized the norm concept, i.e. uses it, without external pressure, as a guide for behaviour and correction, it exists for them as a real norm.A norm concept is accepted as a norm by a population, if it is accepted as a guide for behaviour, such that acts of correction on behalf of it are approved of.
