Final answer:
The term 'Social conventions' refers to informal guidelines that dictate acceptable social behaviors within a culture. These norms, which include mores and folkways, are learned through socialization and vary between cultures.
Step-by-step explanation:
Social conventions are the unwritten rules that govern the ways in which individuals act within their society. These norms, which can be further divided into mores and folkways, shape the behavior and interactions of people by setting expectations for conduct in various situations. Mores embody the moral views and principles of a group and can involve serious consequences if violated; whereas folkways are milder norms that dictate everyday behavior. It's important to note that what is seen as a norm in one culture may not be the case in another, and these varying norms are a reflection of different cultural values and practices.
For example, in many parts of Africa and the Middle East, it is socially acceptable for men to hold hands as a sign of friendship, whereas this may be perceived differently in the United States. Informal norms are usually passed down through socialization and observation rather than through written laws or codes. Understanding and adhering to these informal norms is crucial for social harmony and acceptance within a culture.