There are a few big difference between folkways and mores. Folkways are more like customs, while mores are more like laws. Folkways tend to be less formalized than mores, and they vary from place to place. Mores, on the other hand, are pretty much universal – they apply everywhere. violating a moral can have serious consequences, while violating a folkway might just lead to some social scorn.
What is Folkways?
Folkways are basic guidelines for social behavior that are widely accepted within a society. They include such things as dress codes, table manners, and patterns of speech. Folkways are not strictly enforced, and violations typically result in only mild forms of social disapproval. In contrast, breaking a law is considered a much more serious offense and can result in harsh punishments. Thus, folkways help to define the day-to-day social interactions within a culture. While they may seem trivial, folkways play an important role in shaping the overall fabric of society.
What is Mores?
Mores are the social norms of a culture that are considered fundamental and are typically enforceable through sanctions. Mores define what is right and wrong within a society, and they usually address punishable offenses such as murder and theft.
- In contrast to laws, which are formal rules enacted by a government, mores are informal and largely unwritten. They are passed down from generation to generation and often reflect the values of a society.
- While mores can change over time, they tend to be quite stable, since they are deeply ingrained in a culture. Consequently, they can have a strong influence on people’s behavior.
- Mores provide guidance on how to behave in a socially acceptable way and help to maintain order within a society. As such, they play an important role in shaping cultures and ensuring that societies function smoothly.
Difference between Folkways and Mores
- Folkways are social norms that define what is considered acceptable behavior in a society. They are generally not punishable by law, but they may be enforced by social pressure. Mores are a type of Folkway that are more strictly adhered to and that carry greater moral weight.
- Violations of Mores are often met with more severe punishments, such as exclusion from the community. Folkways and Mores both play an important role in shaping the culture of a society.
- Folkways help to define what is considered acceptable behavior, while Mores provide a moral guide for how people should behave. Together, they provide a framework for how people in a society interact with each other.
Conclusion
Although the distinction between folkways and mores is important, it can be difficult to apply in certain situations. In general, though, understanding the difference between these two social norms will help you avoid offending people or getting into trouble.