Family, Society, and Social Norms: An Analysis
Family: Courtesy and Reproduction
The family is the oldest and most basic institution in society. However, the understanding of family varies across time and cultures, leading to different primary functions. Family reproduction encompasses:
- Regulation of Sexuality: Different family structures exist.
- Socio-cultural Functions: Diverse rules govern the collective transmission of cultural beliefs and values.
- Economic Task: The family serves as a fundamental economic unit within society.
Gender Roles:
- Matriarchal Societies: Women lead society, with families open and children central.
- Patriarchal Societies: Men lead society, with families closed and private property emphasized.
Relationship Types:
- Parent-child families
- Monogamous families
- Polygamous families: One man with multiple women, or one woman with multiple men.
- Nuclear family: Can be closed or open.
Ethnic Principles
Ethnic groups share a common culture, language, customs, beliefs, territorial ties, and ancestry. Shared ethnicity reinforces the uniqueness of members within the same group. When ethnic groups gain power, they can form a nation.
Nationalism: The belief that people of the same ethnic group have the right to build their own independent country, based on shared political, ideological, legal, and economic interests.
Forms of Social Organization
Every society has specific organizational forms, defining the nature of social relations and rules of conduct. These forms include:
Tribal
Small communities structured around family ties, primarily focused on economic survival.
Esklabista (Slave-Based)
More advanced than tribal communities, with slave labor essential for production.
Feudal
Societies structured around military protection and political order, with feudal lords and military leaders responsible for governance.
Modern
Based on commercial and industrial development, with the state and national politics at the core of the organization.
Social Conventions
Moral Rules
Dictate how individuals should behave, reflecting universal requirements. Individuals must act freely and consciously, promising adherence to these rules.
Legal Rules
Established by political communities, applying to all citizens within the region. Authorities enforce these rules, using political support and, if necessary, force. Laws and regulations are in effect within the legal area.
Social Customs
Traditions that are not moral or legal obligations. Examples include greetings, dress codes, gift-giving, and general courtesy. Non-compliance with social traditions is not illegal or immoral, but may be frowned upon by society.
Individualistic vs. Universalistic Models
Individualistic Model
Emphasizes the fight of everyone against everyone, promoting unlimited freedom and rights for all citizens. The state ensures peace and security.
Universalistic Model
Focuses on inherent equality and survival. Prioritizes agreement and community benefit over individual rights. The state expresses the collective desire to find benefits for all.