Social Mores
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Social Mores and Their Impact on Culture
Social mores, the informal norms that govern society's behavior, play a crucial role across cultures, influencing both daily interactions and overall societal structure. Experts like and delve into these concepts in their discussions.
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Cultural Distinctions:
- outlines the distinction between "tight" and "loose" cultures. Tight cultures have strict norms with significant consequences for not adhering, while loose cultures are more permissive and offer a broader range of acceptable behaviors. These differences can dictate the overall behavioral patterns of a society 1 2.
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Social Norms and Their Functions:
- According to , social norms are necessary for societal function, allowing us to predict and coordinate behavior seamlessly. Norms prevent chaotic scenarios like open theft or inappropriate behaviors in public settings, highlighting their role in maintaining social order 3.
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Impact of Tribalism and Social Norms:
- Tribalism, as discussed by , can be beneficial within groups, increasing social capital, building trust, and fostering a sense of community. However, it also poses challenges by creating in-groups and out-groups, potentially leading to unfair treatment of those not within the tribe 4.
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Changing Social Norms:
- emphasizes the potential to change stringent social codes when necessary, although it is a challenging process. Understanding these norms allows us to manipulate them strategically to foster better societal interactions and adaptability 5.
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Examples of Norms in Action:
- During historical crises, these norms have been pivotal. For instance, the Jewish community in Casablanca demonstrated norms of loyalty and responsibility by taking responsibility for refugees unknown to them, illustrating the powerful role of established social expectations in urgent situations 4.
Understanding social mores offers critical insights into both the functionality and the potential rigidity of cultural practices, informing how societies might evolve or need reform to address contemporary challenges and opportunities.
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