Breaking Social Norms: Examples of Cultural Taboos Across the World
When it comes to cultural norms and practices, different societies have their unique ways of doing things ranging from rituals, rites, and behaviors. These practices, however, may be socially unacceptable or considered taboo in other cultures. This article delves into some of the well-known social norms that are considered taboo or unacceptable across the world.
Food Taboos
Food is undoubtedly an essential part of everyday life and culture. However, what is socially acceptable in one culture may be forbidden in another. Some notable examples of food taboos include the consumption of beef in Hindu culture, pork in Islamic and Jewish cultures, and dog meat in Western societies. Additionally, food such as insects, larvae, and snails, which are a delicacy in some cultures, are considered revolting in others.
Body Taboos
Taboos related to the human body are also widespread across cultures. In some cultures, exposing certain areas of the body, such as the legs, lower back, and arms, can be seen as inappropriate and offensive. For example, in Saudi Arabia, women are required to cover their entire body, including their face, when in public. Similarly, in Japan, it is considered rude to blow your nose in public, view others’ nudity, and have tattoos.
Sexual Taboos
Sexual taboos are some of the most extensive and deeply ingrained in cultures worldwide. Incest, homosexuality, and polygamy are some of the sexual practices that may be acceptable in one culture and taboo in another. For instance, incest relationships are legal and widely accepted in some African, Middle Eastern, and Southeast Asian societies but forbidden in Western cultures. Similarly, same-sex sexual activity is illegal in many countries worldwide, while some countries even punish and execute people engaging in homosexual acts.
Death Taboos
Death is a universal phenomenon, but the ways we deal with it vary from culture to culture. Some cultures regard the dead as sacred and, therefore, wear clothes or shoes made only for mourning. In some ethnic communities in Southeast Asia, family members collect their dead relatives’ bones to be included in family celebrations. On the other hand, Western societies consider talking about death and even planning for it a taboo. In some cultures, such as the Hopi tribe in the United States, dying and death are celebrated and viewed as transformation.
Conclusion
Breaking social norms and facing backlash is inevitable, regardless of where you are in the world. However, being aware of cultural differences and respecting them is essential to avoid unnecessary offenses and conflicts. Understanding cultural taboos across the world also helps us appreciate the differences and diversity of human culture.
