Social Norms and Law

Social norms are the unwritten rules and expectations that guide behavior in a society, influencing how individuals interact with one another. They reflect cultural values and what is considered acceptable or unacceptable in a given context. Laws, on the other hand, are formal rules created by governments that are enforceable through legal systems. While laws can be based on social norms, they are specific and carry penalties for violations. In essence, social norms shape our everyday behaviors, while laws provide a structured framework to maintain order and protect rights within a community.