MORES AND LAWS

Introduction:
Mores are a subcategory of norms. These are usually a variety of norms that are
governed by morality. Mores are viewed as customs or else conventions as well. In every
society, there are behaviors that are considered as right and others that are considered as
wrong.A law can be defined as a rule or a system of rules established by authority. Laws
are also considered as a subcategory of norms but are quite different to mores.

Body:
Mostly mores are influenced by religions. However, mores are not universal. Depending
on the context and also period, mores can change. For instance, let us take the idea of
promiscuity. In the modern world, this if frowned upon. But, sometime back in ancient
days, this was considered as normal. Unlike mores that are completely governed by
morality, laws are a bit different in its nature.In mores, the individual usually does not get
punished by the society, even though, the society may not accept the behavior but, in the
case of laws, there is a specific punishment. Also, unlike mores that become a part of the
individual through the socialization process as the child learns to acquire and make mores
a part of him. Laws, on the other hand, operate differently. They are much more external
to the individual than mores, which are more internal. This later on transforms itself into
a law, where the individual is punished for his behavior.

Conclusion:
Mores and laws have to be understood as two different types of norms that exist in the
society where the legal power is at the core of the difference between both, mores and
laws. As we all know, in every society there is a culture that dominates the lives of
people. It is this culture that binds the people together and develops social cohesion.
When speaking of culture, there are various elements such as traditions, customs, music,
dances, histories, norms, etc. that create and nurture a particular culture. When speaking
of mores and laws specifically, these have to be viewed as two types of norms or else
standard practices in a society.
Reflection:
In essence, laws and mores are both based on strong norms which determine the rules of
conduct. While mores may be referred to as a set of moral norms or customs derived
from generally accepted practices, laws are written body of rules and standards issued by
a government. Mores are customs or else conventions. However, laws are not merely
conventions but have a legal body. This is the main difference between laws and mores.
Through this article let us examine the differences between the two categories; mores and
laws.Mores are moral standards that determine right and wrong; they are not social
standards or folkways and the repercussions for breaking mores can be severe such as
legal sanctions or even death. Mores change depending on the culture, group, or society,
and are the basis of some laws.

Prepared by:
Charmaine T. Manuguid

Submitted to:
Mrs. Nieves Guevarra