Norms

What are Norms? All groups create norms to enforce their cultural values Norms are shared rules of conduct that tell people how to act in specific situations Norms are EXPECTED behaviors, not actual behaviors

Examples of Norms Respect for the American flag Cover your mouth when you yawn Not wearing your underwear in public Marrying only one person

Sometimes norms are applied selectively: For example, in America you cannot take another person’s life BUT, this norm is applied differently to soldiers and police officers acting in the line of duty

Two types of Norms Folkways Mores

Folkways Folkways are norms that describe socially acceptable behavior but do not have great moral significance attached to them. Outline common customs of everyday life

Examples of Folkways Do not put food in your mouth with a knife Do not allow an American flag to touch the ground Shake hands when you are introduced to someone Do not push people when waiting in line Do not pass gas in public

Consequences for not abiding by a Folkway? Normally failure to abide by a folkway is a reprimand or a minor punishment To some degree, nonconformity to folkways is permitted because it does not endanger the well- being or stability of society

Mores Mores have great moral significance attached to them Violation of mores endanger society’s well-being and stability

Examples of Mores Dishonesty Fraud Murder Theft Rape

Consequences of violating a Mores? Societies have established punishments for violating mores in order to protect the social well-being. Serious mores are formalized as LAWS, written rules of conduct enacted and enforced by the government However, some laws also enforce less severe folkways, such as not parking in spaces reserved for disabled drivers.