What is One Difference Between a More and a Folkway?

Greetings, cultural enthusiasts! In our journey through different cultures, societies and their practices, we might stumble upon two particularly intriguing sociological terms – mores and folkways. 

At first glance, they may seem quite similar, as both are unwritten social norms that influence our behavior. 

But on a closer look, I’ll find that these closely related social regulations have a critical distinction.

(“In today’s discussion, we will seek to shed light on this difference between mores and folkways, offering a valuable perspective on how culture operates.”)


Decoding Social Norms: What Are Mores and Folkways?

Before we dive into their differences, let’s first establish what mores and folkways are. 

Understanding these terms intimately is a prerequisite before we can address their differences.

What Are Mores?

Mores (pronounced more-ays) refer to societal standards or norms perceived as morally binding and essential. 

Mores often form the nucleus of a society, exerting strong societal pressure to comply. 

Violating these can lead to severe punishment, varying from social ostracism to legal consequences. 

Mores often represent the ethical dimensions of a society.

  • Examples of Mores:
    • Prohibition of theft
    • Prohibition of murder
    • Respect for marriage vows

What Are Folkways?

On the other hand, folkways are norms related to everyday behavior that are seen more as social expectations rather than hard-and-fast rules. 

Noncompliance doesn’t attract harsh punishment but might elicit minor disdain, surprise, or confusion. 

Folkways govern mundane, daily rituals and etiquettes.

  • Examples of Folkways:
    • Saying ‘please’ and ‘thank you.’
    • Holding the door for the person behind you
    • Not talking with food in the mouth

The Vital Distinction Between Mores and Folkways

With some understanding of what mores and folkways mean individually, let’s get into the crux of our discussion – their vital distinction.

The Scale of Consequence: A Major Factor

The fundamental difference between mores and folkways lies in the gravity of their violation. 

This difference forms the core of their distinct identities in sociological discourse.

Mores, given their moral and ethical importance to the society, carry severe consequences when broken. 

In many cultures, breach of mores is considered a serious social dilemma or even a legal infringement.

On the other hand, folkways are casual guidelines for social interaction. 

Although they contribute to the overall societal fabric, their violation doesn’t lead to severe repercussions. 

Breaching a folkway might at most lead to perceived rudeness, awkwardness, or a faux pas.

“Mores uphold societal moral and ethical standards, whereas Folkways guide everyday social etiquettes. The degree of consequence for their violation marks the critical difference between them.”


Practical Implications: How Mores and Folkways Shape Society

Understanding the difference between mores and folkways uncovers a layered perspective on how societies function. 

It gives us a peek into the collective conscience of a group, illuminating how they perceive right from wrong, acceptable from unacceptable.

Mores: The Moral Anchor

Mores act as a society’s moral compass. 

They instill a sense of order and righteousness, contributing to social harmony and perpetuation of norms. 

Violation of mores alerts the society of a probable detriment to its moral fabric.

Folkways: The Social Glue

Folkways, while not as profound as mores, are little threads that weave the social fabric together, enhancing interpersonal relations and mutual respect. 

These cultural etiquettes nurture societal cohesion on a day-to-day basis.


Our Journey Through Norms: Wrapping Up

Understanding the difference between mores and folkways helps decode cultural and societal norms. 

Mores and folkways have distinct but interconnected roles – while mores maintain ethical standards, folkways smooth social interactions. 

This distinction is crucial to grasp for anyone exploring cultural studies, sociology, social psychology, or anyone curious about human behavior. 

Each time we align our actions with these norms, we contribute to our social world’s functioning, one interaction at a time.

Unpack your culture – have you ever unknowingly violated a folkway or a more, and what lessons did you take from that experience? 

Let’s keep the conversation alive – tell us your stories and thoughts in the comments section below.


FAQs – Difference Between a More and a Folkway


What are Mores and Folkways?

Mores and Folkways are two types of social norms that guide behavior in our society. They are unwritten rules about how to behave. Mores are about moral and ethical behaviors, while Folkways are related to everyday customs and etiquette.

What is an example of a More?

A More can be an expectation such as not committing crimes like stealing or murder. These are serious societal norms; violation of these can have severe repercussions like legal punishment.

Could you give an example of Folkway?

A Folkway can be as simple as shaking hands when greeting someone or wearing appropriate attire to a specific event. Violating a folkway might result in social discomfort but not any severe consequences.

What is the primary difference between a More and a Folkway?

The principal difference is how society responds to their violation. Violating a More is considered a serious offense and often results in severe punishment. On the other hand, violating a Folkway may result in mild social disapproval but not severe sanctions.

Are Mores more critical than Folkways in society?

Both Mores and Folkways are important as they both guide our behaviors. However, Mores focus on ethics and morality and their violations are taken more seriously in society.

Does every society have the same Mores and Folkways?

No, Mores and Folkways can vary greatly from one culture or society to another. What might be acceptable in one culture could be frowned upon in another.

Can Mores and Folkways change over time?

Yes, as society evolves and changes, so do the Mores and Folkways. Changes in societal views, advancements in technology, or shifts in cultural practices can all result in changes in these social norms.

Are there any sanctions for violating Mores and Folkways?

Yes, both can have sanctions. For Mores, these can be legal consequences, while Folkways mostly result in social disapproval or discomfort.

Does violation of Folkways lead to legal action?

Generally, no. Violating a Folkway usually won’t lead to a legal penalty, but more to a social frown, mild disapproval, or embarrassment.

Can understanding Mores and Folkways help in cross-cultural interactions?

Definitely! Understanding the Mores and Folkways of different cultures can help in better understanding their behaviors, reducing misinterpretations and facilitating smoother cross-cultural interactions.

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