We explain what moral norms are, their characteristics and examples. In addition, we explain the difference between moral and legal norms.
Being empathetic with others is a moral norm.
What are moral norms?
Moral standards are Rules of conduct imposed by a society that govern the actions of people. They are based on values that society considers important, such as respect, justice and generosity, and they seek to channel people’s actions towards good. Some examples of moral standards are: being kind to others and not lying.
These rules are not written, but are transmitted from generation to generation and are known by all members of a given community. They are complied with voluntarily and non-compliance does not carry any specific sanction, although it may lead to rejection or social isolation.
Moral norms are different from legal normswhich are those dictated by an authority and are mandatory. These are based on justice as a supreme social value and non-compliance with them has legal weight, that is, it implies a sanction or penalty. Legal norms are always written, as is the case with laws or decrees. In many cases, these norms are based on moral norms.
Many moral norms are universal in nature, such as “do not kill” and “respect others.” However, many others depend on the social context. In this way, what in one population is considered morally correct, in another could mean the opposite. Furthermore, some moral norms can change over time.
What is morality?
Morality is a set of norms and rules considered positive and acceptable, which guide people’s behavior and allow them to lead a harmonious life in the community. It should not be confused with ethics, which is the study of human behavior.
Characteristics of moral standards
The main characteristics of moral norms are:
- They are rules that regulate the behavior of individuals.
- They are based on values, such as solidarity, honesty and respect.
- They arise from the culture and customs of each society.
- They are not written or documented.
- They are transmitted through habits, words and example across generations.
- They do not require a legal apparatus to be put into practice by people.
- Failure to comply does not entail any legal penalty.
- They vary between different populations.
- They contribute to social harmony.
Examples of moral norms
Kindness is the basis of many moral standards.
Some examples of moral standards are:
- Be kind to others.
- Speak honestly.
- Give priority of passage to an ambulance or essential service that needs to travel urgently.
- Caring for and respecting children.
- Do not throw waste on the street.
- Respect other people’s opinions.
- Fulfill the promises and commitments made.
- Keep the secrets.
- Don’t pressure another person to do something they don’t want to do.
- Assist the sick and needy.
- Treat all people with respect.
- Do not damage other people’s property.
- Not lie.
- Respect national symbols.
- Do not discriminate.
- Apologize when necessary.
- Take care of the environment.
- Respect other people’s property.
- Do not talk about others behind their backs.
- Do not judge the decisions and actions of others.
Differences between moral norms and legal norms
However, there are some fundamental differences between them:
Moral normsLegal normsRecordThey are not written, they are transmitted from generation to generation They are written and documentedAuthority that issues themSociety as a wholeCertain institutionsSanctionsSocial rejection Penalties previously defined by institutions
Moral philosophy
Helping others in certain situations is a moral norm.
moral philosophy, Also called ethics, it is the part of philosophy that analyzes and studies human behavior.. This discipline reflects on good, evil and moral actions.
Within moral philosophy, the work of the German philosopher Immanuel Kant (1724 – 1804) stood out, who introduced the term categorical imperative to refer to moral duty, and which turned out to be a central concept in later modern ethics.
The concept categorical imperative refers to a rational and universal principle which regulates moral actions. One of Kant’s most notable formulations of this principle is: “Act in such a way that your will can be considered as universally legislating,” that is, act in such a way that this action can be extended to all times and places.
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References
- Vernengo, R. (2001). Moral norms and legal norms. Miguel de Cervantes Virtual Library.
- Royal Spanish Academy (2023). Moral. https://dle.rae.es/moral.
- Rachels, J. (2006). Introduction to moral philosophy. Fund of Economic Culture.