30 Examples of Moral Norms

A rule It is a principle or rule that is used within a society to govern people’s behavior. The moral standards They are a type of norm that determines the attitudes and behaviors that are considered moral (and, therefore, expected of individuals) and rejects those that violate the rights or dignity of third parties and that do not contribute to harmony and social order. For instance: keep the word or promises given, do not lie, apologize.

Moral norms are usually transmitted from generation to generation and may vary according to the customs and beliefs of each society. They are characterized by lacking a specific sanction in case of non-compliance, because are not regulated by any entity or institution but for society as a whole. However, non-compliance with moral norms can lead to rejection, isolation or social rejection.

Moral norms differ from legal norms, which are those norms (such as laws or decrees) that are duly regulated, so their non-compliance is grounds for sanction by the State. However, in many cases, a legal norm is also considered a moral norm. For instance: Do not steal or steal.

Characteristics of moral norms

Moral norms are characterized by:

How do moral norms arise?

Moral norms are derived from certain ethical values that emerge from within society, such as equity and justice. A pillar that supports many of the moral norms is the principle that determines that “one should treat others in the same way that one would like to be treated by others.”

Throughout history various philosophers, such as Aristotle or Immanuel Kant, considered questions about morality. Kant, for example, proposed a categorical imperative: “Work only in such a way that you can wish that the maxim of your action becomes a universal law “.

While many societies in the Western world tend to be governed by the moral principlesIn certain communities, it is considered that morality should be subject to God’s designs and, therefore, not only the offense to other people should be considered, but also the offenses towards God.

In any case, in no way can the law fail to take moral norms into account when considering its decisions and verdicts, and the absence of concrete penalties for those who transgress moral norms does not mean that the transgression has no social consequences. .

Examples of moral norms

1. Ensure the physical and psychological well-being of the children.
2. Carry out acts of kindness, regardless of whether they are of personal benefit.
3. Don’t lie to other people.
4. Be responsible with work.
5. Do not steal or steal other people’s property.
6. Allow pregnant women or people with children to be treated with priority in banks, supermarkets or public offices.
7. Help neighbors when they need it.
8. Do not use social benefits for people with characteristics that you do not have.
9. Do not mistreat people or animals.
10. Do not reveal secrets.
11. Help the elderly and children.
12. Give the seat to the elderly in public transport.
13. Be loyal to those who have been kind to you.
14. Be tolerant of the differences of thought of others.
15. Do not physically or verbally attack third parties.
16. Fulfill the commitments to which one was committed by word of mouth.
17. Earning jobs on your own merit and not for ties or favors.
18. Don’t take advantage of someone else’s limitation.
19. Don’t cheat on exams.
20. Be a faithful person within the framework of relationships.
21. Respect the symbols of all religions.
22. Respect the national symbols.
23. Do not throw the garbage in the street.
24. Respect the enviroment.
25. Do not discriminate against others.
26. Respect private property.
27. Keep the word or promises given.
28. Do not vandalize public or private spaces.
29. Do not force third parties to take an action without your consent.
30. Comply with the debts incurred.