What Are Mores

Waren Burn

less than a minute read

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28-11-2024

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Mores (pronounced MORE-ays) are the moral attitudes and norms of a society. They represent the deeply ingrained, often unwritten, rules that govern acceptable behavior within a culture. Unlike folkways, which are customs and conventions, mores carry significant moral weight and violating them often elicits strong social disapproval, even legal consequences in some cases.

Distinguishing Mores from Folkways and Laws

It's crucial to understand the distinction between mores, folkways, and laws. While all three represent social norms, their enforcement and the consequences of violating them differ significantly:

• Folkways: These are everyday customs and conventions. Violating a folkway might result in a raised eyebrow or a comment, but rarely more serious repercussions. Examples include saying "please" and "thank you," or holding a door open for someone.

• Mores: These are deeply held moral norms. Violating a more could lead to social ostracism, significant disapproval, or even legal action depending on the specific context and the society in question. Examples include adultery, theft, or murder.

• Laws: These are formal, codified rules enforced by the state. Violating a law results in legal penalties, such as fines, imprisonment, or other punishments.

Examples of Mores

Mores vary widely across different cultures and societies. What might be considered acceptable behavior in one culture could be deeply offensive in another. Some examples of mores in many Western societies include:

• Respect for elders: Showing deference and consideration for older people.
• Honesty and integrity: Acting truthfully and maintaining ethical principles.
• Respect for property: Not stealing or damaging the belongings of others.
• Sexual morality: Adherence to social norms around sexual behavior. This area often sees the most significant variation across cultures.
• Religious observance: Following the established norms and traditions of a religion, though the specifics vary immensely.

The Importance of Understanding Mores

Understanding the mores of a culture is crucial for effective social interaction and successful navigation of diverse environments. A lack of awareness can lead to unintentional offense or even serious conflict. By studying the unwritten rules that govern a culture's moral compass, individuals can promote greater understanding and tolerance. Furthermore, identifying and analyzing mores can shed light on a society's values and priorities. They offer a window into a culture's deepest held beliefs about what constitutes right and wrong.