The main difference between norms and values is that norms are accepted standards of behaviour, whereas values are principles that help you to decide what is right and wrong.
Norms are standards of behaviour that play a major role in maintaining social order and stability. Values, on the other hand, are abstract concepts that help us to decide what is wrong and right. While values are general guidelines, norms are specific guidelines.
Key Areas Covered
1. What are Norms
– Definition, Characteristics, Examples
2. What are Values
– Definition, Characteristics, Examples
3. What is the Difference Between Norms and Values
– Comparison of Key Differences
Key Terms
Norms, Values, Standards of Behaviour
What are Norms
Norms or social norms are accepted standards or ways of being or doing things. To be more specific, they are standards of behaviour shared by members of a social group. These are unwritten rules of behaviour. For example, shaking hands when you meet someone, saying ‘sorry’ when you bump into someone, not interrupting someone when they are talking, opening a door for an elderly person, covering your mouth and nose when sneezing, not talking with your mouth full, etc. are some social norms. In addition, norms can change according to culture, society or environment. For example, when you enter a Hindu or Buddhist temple or a mosque, you have to take off your shoes. However, this is not applicable to all religious places.
Furthermore, norms help to create order and stability in society. Most people want to be part of society and be accepted by society; those who do not follow social norms will face disapproval and alienation from society. This is how society makes sure people follow norms. Moreover, we usually learn social norms by experience and observation, not through formal learning.
What are Values
Values are basically principles that help you to decide what is right and wrong. They describe personal standards of what is valuable or important. Values help us to make decisions about right and wrong, important and less important, etc.
Values can be made of our likes, dislikes, perspectives, prejudices, and judgment. They have the ability to shape a person’s behaviour. Therefore, they provide a basic foundation for understanding a person’s personality, behaviour, attitudes, and perceptions.
It is also important to note that values depend on individuals; each individual has different values. Moreover, various factors like culture, education, religion and society can influence the values of a person. Hospitality, generosity, honesty, courage, integrity, and fairness are some examples of values.
Difference Between Norms and Values
Definition
Norms are accepted standards of behaviour, whereas values are principles that help you to decide what is right and wrong.
Nature
While norms are specific guidelines, values are general guidelines.
Social vs Personal
Norms are behaviours that are accepted by the society, while values are principals believed by an individual.
Variance
Moreover, norms may vary from society to society, while values may vary from individual to individual.
Examples
Covering your mouth and nose when sneezing, shaking hands when you meet someone, saying ‘sorry’ when you bump into someone, not talking with your mouth full, etc. are some examples of norms whereas honesty, integrity, courage, kindness, fairness, and generosity are examples of values.
Conclusion
The main difference between norms and values is that norms are standards of behaviour whereas values are principles that help you to decide what is right and wrong. While values are general guidelines, norms are specific guidelines. Both norms and values are important aspects of society.
Reference:
1. Evans, Tracy. “Values & Norms.” Lumen – Cultural Anthropology, Available here.
2. “Social Norm Examples.” YourDictionary, 3 Jan. 2018, Available here.
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