What is one difference between a more and a folkway?
a. Mores are constructed based on norms; folkways are not.
b. Mores are legally acceptable to violate; folkways are not.
c. Mores may carry serious consequences if violated; folkways do not.
d. Mores encourage social rebellion; folkways do not.
The correct answer and explanation is :
The correct answer is c. Mores may carry serious consequences if violated; folkways do not.
Explanation:
Mores and folkways are both types of social norms, but they differ in terms of their importance and the consequences of violating them.
- Mores are norms that are considered to be essential to the well-being of society and its members. They are strongly held societal rules that often involve moral or ethical judgments. These norms typically govern behaviors related to serious issues such as justice, law, and morality. For example, mores could include prohibitions against theft, murder, or incest. Violating a more can lead to serious consequences, such as legal punishment, social ostracism, or even imprisonment, because these norms are seen as crucial for maintaining social order and protecting the rights of individuals. In essence, mores are considered so important that violating them can result in profound consequences.
- Folkways, on the other hand, are informal norms that govern everyday behaviors and customs. These are less severe rules and often relate to etiquette, manners, or small social expectations, such as dressing appropriately for an event or using polite table manners. Violating a folkway might result in mild disapproval or social embarrassment but does not typically carry the serious consequences associated with violating mores. For example, not saying “please” or “thank you” might offend someone, but it is unlikely to result in significant social or legal penalties.
In summary, the primary difference between the two is that mores are more deeply tied to a society’s moral code and often come with serious consequences if violated, while folkways are less important in terms of moral judgment and are associated with less severe repercussions. Thus, the violation of a folkway is seen as more of a social faux pas than a breach of the social order, while violating a more can result in serious societal penalties.