What do we call social customs that may be broken without serious consequences?

The term that refers to social customs that can be broken without facing serious consequences is "folkways." Folkways include everyday norms, practices, and behaviors that are generally accepted within a culture but are not strictly enforced. For example, customary greetings or dress codes in various social settings are considered folkways; while it may be frowned upon to violate these customs, the repercussions are typically minor.

Mores, on the other hand, are social norms that carry significant moral weight and are expected to be followed, with serious consequences for violations. Laws are formal rules established by a governing body, which enforceable through the legal system, and norms encompass all types of social behaviors, including both folkways and mores. Understanding these distinctions highlights why folkways specifically fit the criteria of customs that can be broken more easily without severe repercussions.