Cultura
norms
“Read the word
without moving your
lips"
What is norms
A norm is a rule or established guideline to guide the behavior and
actions of individuals in a society or group.
Norms are agreements that determine what is considered
acceptable or desirable in terms of behavior, values, and principles.
They can be formal, such as laws and regulations, or informal, such
as social and cultural norms.
The purpose of norms is to promote peaceful coexistence, order,
and social cohesion by establishing clear boundaries and
expectations. Compliance with norms is essential for the
harmonious functioning of a community.
What is cultural norms
Cultural norms are the shared, unwritten rules of behavior
that are considered acceptable and typical within a specific
cultural group. They dictate how people should act, think,
and interact in various situations. These norms are learned
and reinforced through socialization and influence various
aspects of life, from language and etiquette to social
customs and values.
Cultural norms are the established patterns of behavior and
beliefs that are common within a particular social group or
society.
Examples of cultural norms
Gift-giving: The customs surrounding gift-giving, such as
what to give and when, are culturally influenced.
Greetings: How people greet each other, whether with
handshakes, hugs, or bows, is also culturally specific.
Table Manners: Eating customs differ greatly. Slurping
noodles is considered polite in Japan, but might be seen
as rude in many Western countries .
Wearing certain clothing or head coverings in religious
settings
Types of norms
Folkways
The word means literally, the ways of the folk. Folks means
people and Ways refers to their behavioural habits.
Folkways are informal, customary ways of behaving in a
society or group, often considered minor social norms that
are not morally significant but are important for social
acceptance and smooth social interaction. They are learned
and shared within a social group, and while not strictly
enforced, they are expected to be followed.
Examples:
Saking hands when greeting someone.
Opening a door for someone.
Not putting elbows on the table while eating.
Mores
Mores are the established, widely accepted customs, rules, and
moral principles that govern behavior within a society or culture.
They represent what is considered morally right or wrong within
that specific context. Violating mores often results in social
disapproval or other consequences.
Mores are a type of social norm that dictate what is considered
acceptable or unacceptable behavior within a society.
Violating mores can lead to social sanctions like criticism,
ostracization, or even legal consequences if the behavior is also
prohibited by law.
Examples
1. Respect for Life: Killing or harming others is seen
as morally wrong.
2. Honesty: Lying or deceit is considered morally
unacceptable.
3. Marriage: Extramarital affairs are generally viewed
as moral violations.
4. Theft: Taking someone else's property is seen as
morally wrong.
Taboos
Derived from the Tongan word "Tabu,"
meaning "forbidden" or "prohibited," Taboo
refers to actions, behaviours, or subjects that
are considered forbidden, offensive, or socially
unacceptable within a particular culture or
society. It encompasses a wide range of
practices, beliefs, and Rituals that are
considered to be improper or beyond the
bounds of what is acceptable.
Examples
Incest
Sexual relationships between close family members are
universally considered taboo. This taboo helps regulate
family dynamics and prevent genetic complications .
Cannibalism
Consuming human flesh is a universally repugnant
taboo. It reflects a core belief in the sanctity of human
life .
Adultery
People who commit adultery usually keep it a secret
because their actions are taboo.
Laws
Laws are formal, written norms enforced by the
state, while norms are broader social expectations
about behavior. Laws are a specific type of norm,
those that have been codified and are backed by
legal consequences
Laws enforce moral norms and clearly define what
is expected and what is right and wrong.
Laws also punish people if they do not follow
community norms and legal institutions, such as
police and the courts, have been set up to enforce
them.
Examples
Traffic Laws - Many traffic laws, such as stopping at
red lights and yielding to pedestrians, reflect norms
of safety and courtesy. These norms pre-existed the
laws but are reinforced by legal consequences for
violations.
Laws Against Assault and Battery -These laws
formalize the widely held norm against physical
violence, providing legal consequences for
violations that go beyond social disapproval.
Laws Regarding Marriage and Family -These laws
often reflect (though they also frequently shape)
societal norms surrounding family structures, roles,
and responsibilities. These laws vary considerably
across cultures, reflecting diverse norms.
