What distinguishes laws from other norms?

Laws are distinct from other norms primarily because they are formally defined and established by a governing authority. This formal aspect means that laws are written down, codified, and can be found in legal documents such as statutes and regulations. Unlike informal norms, which may vary widely in interpretation and enforcement, laws provide clear guidelines about acceptable behavior within a society.

Additionally, laws can change over time through legislative processes, reflecting changes in societal values or needs. This adaptability is a key aspect of their formal structure, as the legal system evolves to accommodate new social realities or shifts in public opinion. Laws are meant to be consistently applied to all individuals within the jurisdiction, aiming for fairness and justice, although the reality of enforcement may vary.

The other options do not capture this essential characteristic of laws. While personal beliefs may influence different types of norms, they do not provide a structured framework like laws do. The idea that laws are universally applicable is misleading since laws can vary significantly between different jurisdictions. Likewise, the enforcement of laws is not always consistent, as various factors can lead to disparities in how laws are implemented or enforced.