Which norms are considered highly necessary for the welfare of society?

Mores are the norms that are considered essential for the functioning and welfare of society. They embody the fundamental values and ethical principles that a society holds dear. Violations of mores typically result in serious consequences and often invoke strong emotional responses from members of the community. These norms govern moral behaviors related to issues such as marriage, honesty, and respect for authority, thereby promoting social cohesion and stability.

In contrast, folkways are less critical norms that guide everyday behavior and etiquette but do not carry the same moral significance. Taboos relate to behaviors that are deeply forbidden within a culture and often provoke disgust or revulsion, but they are not necessarily foundational to social order. Customs are traditions that societies follow, but like folkways, they lack the moral imperative that characterizes mores. Thus, while all these norms play a role in social life, mores are specifically designed to uphold societal welfare and maintain moral order.