Mores and folkways are both types of social norms, but they differ in their level of importance and enforcement within a society.
Mores are norms that are considered to be highly important and are closely related to the moral and ethical values of a society. They are often formalized in laws and are enforced through social sanctions such as ostracism or legal punishment. Mores are considered to be essential for the functioning of a society and violating them can lead to serious consequences.
Folkways, on the other hand, are norms that are more informal and are based on traditional customs and habits. They are considered to be less important than mores and are generally followed out of convenience or tradition rather than a sense of moral obligation. Violating folkways may lead to social disapproval or mild consequences, but they are not as strictly enforced as mores.
In summary, mores are formalized norms that are considered to be highly important and are enforced through social sanctions, while folkways are informal norms that are based on tradition and are followed out of convenience rather than moral obligation.
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Google Gemini AI
Aug 7
Mores
- Definition: Norms that are considered essential to the well-being of society and are generally followed by all members of a group. - Characteristics: - Shared by the majority of society - Enforced through social sanctions (e.g., gossip, exclusion) - Violation can result in severe consequences (e.g., ostracism, punishment) - Examples: - Taboos against incest or murder - Religious beliefs and practices - Cultural values
Folkways
- Definition: Norms that regulate everyday behavior and are not as critical as mores. - Characteristics: - Less universal than mores - Enforced through informal means (e.g., ridicule, disapproval) - Violation typically results in mild consequences (e.g., embarrassment) - Examples: - Table manners - Greeting customs - Fashion trends
Key Differences:
- Importance: Mores are considered more important than folkways for maintaining social order. - Consequences: Violation of mores can lead to severe sanctions, while violation of folkways typically results in milder consequences. - Enforcement: Mores are enforced through social sanctions, while folkways are enforced informally. - Universality: Mores are more universally shared within a society than folkways. - Stability: Mores tend to be more stable and resistant to change than folkways.