Norm (sociology)

:See also cultural norm.

Types of norms

Some sociologists identify two types of norms:

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Mores

Moral norms that define in every culture what is wrong and right, what is allowed and not allowed, what is wanted and not wanted. Breaking those norms is usually considered by the society as a threat to social organization and are sanctioned harshly. Example: murder, robbery.

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Folkways

Norms that define in every culture the rituals, beliefs, traditions and routines. Breaking them is not usually considered a threat to social organization and are sanctioned less severely than mores. Example: Thanksgiving dinner, saying grace. See Faux pas

Related Topics:
Thanksgiving - Faux pas

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