1. Norms

2. 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

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

4. 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

5. Two types of Norms
Folkways
Mores

6. 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

7. 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

8. 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

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

10. Examples of Mores
Dishonesty
Fraud
Murder
Theft
Rape

11. 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.