Which term denotes norms that are strongly held and considered essential and which are strictly enforced?

• A. Value
• B. Norms
• C. Folkways
• D. Mores

Answer: (D)

Mores are norms that a culture treats as essential to its welfare and moral order. Because they carry strong moral weight, violations are met with severe sanctions, from social disapproval to formal penalties. This combination of high importance and strict enforcement is what sets mores apart from other norms. For example, prohibitions against murder or theft reflect mores. By contrast, folkways govern everyday etiquette and carry only mild sanctions, values are broad ideals about what a society should aspire to, and norms is the general category of expected behavior without specifying how strongly it will be enforced.