Neon Green booklet - How social changes affect policy development

Question 1

What are Social norms?

Answer 1

Social Norms - refers to behaviour and attitudes which are considered
normal and expected. For example, it is generally the norm to treat people equally and without discrimination.

Question 2

What are social values?

Answer 2

Social Values - are things that people consider important to them. For example, it is important to protect vulnerable people.

Question 3

What are mores?

Answer 3

Mores - behaviours that are morally and ethically acceptable to a society. For example, it is immoral to be cruel towards animals.

Question 4

What is a supporting example of how social, norms,values and mores change?

Answer 4

• SMOKING
• Smoking was once a widespread social norm, accepted in public places and even promoted by medical professionals.

As health risks became clear, social values shifted, leading to stricter laws and smoking being viewed as a harmful habit.

Since these changes, UK smoking rates have dropped from 22% in 2006 to 13% in 2024, with more people choosing to quit.

Question 5

What happened with laws on smoking in 1930?

Answer 5

Social norms changed - In the 1930s, smoking was glamorised and encouraged, even by doctors. It was acceptable and legal to smoke indoors, in restaurants, in cars and beside children.

Question 6

What year did research linking lung cancer to smoking come out?

Answer 6

1950- British Medical Journal

Question 7

What year did the The Health Secretary make an agreement with the Tobacco industry that all packets required a health warning?

Answer 7

1971

Question 8

Under what law is smoking in public places banned?

Answer 8

Health Act 2006

Question 9

what smoking law was introduced in 2013?

Answer 9

Children and Families Act (2014)

It is now an offence for an adult to buy cigarettes for anyone under 18 and to smoke in a private vehicle carrying children under 18.

Question 10

What are 3 additional HOWEVER points relating to smoking?

Answer 10

1. Vaping has replaced smoking as a social norm, promoted as a safer alternative through government campaigns and social acceptance, leading to a sharp rise in UK usage.
2. Though less harmful than smoking, vaping carries health risks such as exposure to harmful chemicals and potential long-term issues like respiratory and cardiovascular problems; flavoured e-liquids also raise concerns about youth addiction and gateway effects.
3. In response, the UK Government announced new policies in January 2024, including a ban on disposable vapes, stricter regulations on flavours and packaging, and on-the-spot fines for underage sales, set to take effect by the end of 2024.

Question 11

What example is related to the public perception of crime?

Answer 11

Drink driving