Which type of behavior faces strong reactions from society when violated?

Mores are the social norms that are considered to be essential for the moral welfare of a society. When individuals violate mores, the reactions from society can be intense and often involve feelings of outrage or condemnation. This is because mores typically govern behaviors that are seen as fundamental to a culture's values and ethics, such as prohibitions against theft, murder, or other acts deemed immoral.

In contrast, customs refer to traditional practices and rituals that may evoke a response, but typically not as strong or morally charged as mores. Norms, while they can also lead to societal reactions, generally pertain to more everyday behaviors and expectations rather than core moral issues. Habits are individual behaviors and practices that don’t necessarily invoke societal reactions, as they are usually personal and might not significantly impact social norms or values.

Understanding the significance of mores can help one grasp why violations lead to strong societal backlash, underscoring their critical role in maintaining the ethical framework within a community.