What does the term 'mores' refer to in the context of cultural beliefs?

The term 'mores' specifically refers to the accepted traditional customs and usages of a particular social group, and it embodies the beliefs surrounding the rightness or wrongness of behavior within that culture. Mores are not just general norms; they have strong ethical implications and are often tied to the moral fabric of society. Violating mores typically results in severe social sanctions, underscoring their importance in maintaining societal order and hierarchy.

In contrast, while rituals and traditions convey cultural practices, they do not inherently encompass the moral judgments inherent in mores. General cultural norms could include a wide range of behaviors and expectations but lack the distinct moral weight carried by mores. Societal laws are codified regulations that govern behavior, but they may not always align perfectly with societal values or mores. Mores are more about the informal, socially enforced rules that guide behavior based on collective beliefs about right and wrong.