How are folkways defined?

Folkways are defined as informal customs or everyday norms within a culture that govern behavior. They are the habitual practices and social conventions of a society that are generally accepted and expected but do not carry heavy moral weight. Violating folkways usually results in mild reactions such as social disapproval or informal sanctions rather than formal punishment.

This understanding highlights that folkways are distinct from laws and strict regulations, which are formalized and enforced by authorities. Instead, they reflect the cultural norms that guide behavior in less formal and less serious contexts. Folkways serve an important role in maintaining social cohesion and ensuring that individuals adhere to accepted behaviors in a community, but any breaches of these customs typically involve only minor consequences.