What does "collective judgement" refer to in the context of societal norms?

"Collective judgment" in the context of societal norms refers to the shared understanding and agreement within a community regarding what behaviors are considered morally acceptable. This concept emphasizes the importance of societal consensus in shaping norms and values that guide individual actions and interactions within a society.

When a society collectively judges certain behaviors as acceptable or unacceptable, it creates a framework for social expectations and influences laws, cultural practices, and social stability. This consensus reflects a broad agreement among members of the community about morality, ethics, and appropriate conduct, impacting how laws are formed and enforced.

In contrast to legal codes, which are formalized regulations set by governing bodies, collective judgment is more fluid and can evolve as societal values change over time. While the opinions of legal experts and viewpoints of political leaders can influence or reflect societal norms, they do not encompass the broader consensus that constitutes collective judgment in a community.