Sociological Analysis of Social Norms

370 Words2 Pages
All societies have norms, the expectations that guide the behavior of its members. Some norms are considered more important than others. Folkways are norms for routine and social interaction. Here in America we are expected to greet others with a smile and a hand shake. Lawyers and business men wear a suit and tie to work and no man should ever wear a dress. When someone sneezes they cover their mouth. It would be rude to use your phone during a funoral or church servise. If we were to break any of these rules, we would likely be considered wierd, rude, or funny; and probably feel embarrased. Everyday we make hundreds of thousands of choices and decisians while interacting with others. We most often choose the path of least resistance; we do what is expected of us. Folkways are less significant, sometimes flexible and differ from one place to another. folkways can be tradicional or practical. Norms that are widely observed and have great moral significance are called mores. Laws are created to keep people from breaking mores that hurt others such as theft, murder, and rape. Some American mores include taboos such as Incest, which causes birth defects, and premarital sex that spreads disease. Someone who does not follow a societys mores will be considered insane, twisted, or evil. Americans are becoming more liberal regaurding sexuality. Years ago people were more likely to concider homosexuality a taboo. Premarital sex is becoming more common and in 20 years I believe abstinance will be unheard of. Music artists break social norms to standout and get atention. As popular culture contenus to push our morals to the limit, society will follow American culture is also changing in many other ways. Our society is becoming more open minded and less ignorint of the consequences of our everyday actions. racial jokes are now strongly frowned upon when they used to be
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