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The last few years have seen a notable shift in society’s norms. This has rendered certain behaviors that were once considered permissible but now are critically judged and highly inappropriate. All these behavioral changes indicate an increased consciousness of the issues of security, well-being, and parity. Such issues include racist slurs, uttering abusive words, and discrimination in respective contexts.
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Polygamy
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Polygamy is when one man has multiple wives. This is a form of marriage that is prevalent in many cultures. Today, monogamy is the norm, and people view polygamy as socially unacceptable. The unequal treatment of the wives, where one is favored over the others, is a significant issue with Polygamy. Jealousy and conflict within the household may disrupt the marriage and break the familial bond.
Child Marriage Agreements
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The practice of child marriage is practiced in many countries. It became irrelevant as society accepted that it is unethical to bind such young people to lifelong social contracts like marriage when children have no idea of what is happening around them. Marriage agreements were fixed at social events like balls, parties, and other events. All of them would be frowned upon today.
Smoking in Public Areas
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Sharing a cigarette and smoking in public spaces like cafes, restaurants, or even airplanes was common behavior back then. Restrictions are laid down, and certain smoking corners and spots are made for this behavior. Smoking in food joints, offices, hospitals, and airplanes is banned now!
Using Vulgar Language
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The world wasn’t as connected before as it is today. Many swear words stem from bodily functions or religious beliefs. Since society was much more homogenous, what offended one person offended everyone. Today, thanks to awareness and social diversity, vulgarity is more offensive. We have also evolved to realize that language hurts.
Using Racist Slurs
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Previously, society viewed race as a hierarchy. Superior races believed that they were better than other races. However, science has disproved the race theory. People understand that racist slurs cause immense pain and exclude people. Discriminatory language and racial slurs, which were used to insult people previously or address them, have been condemned and are taboo today.
Loud Engines and Speeding
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Blasting powerful engines without mufflers and speeding on streets to display one’s vehicle was once considered impressive. Not anymore. Today, with denser populations and busier streets, loud engines and speeding create noise pollution and endanger lives. Moreover, the number of loud gasoline engines is also decreasing with electric cars.
White Supremacist March
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In the past, many racist groups used to hold white supremacist marches to intimidate and showcase their hatred against non-white humans. For example, the Ku Klux Klan held several protests until recently in 2017. These acts are met with strong opposition and counter-protests, resulting in a ban on these organizations.
Displaying the Confederate Flag
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Families outside their homes hosted the Confederate flag as a symbol of Southern heritage in America. The acceptance of all races, including migrants, has spread a wave of equality and unity. Nowadays, the public display of the Confederate flag is considered highly inappropriate because it is viewed as a testament to slavery, racism, and separation.
Infidelity
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Previously, the patriarchal society encouraged the normality of infidelity as long as the men provided for women. Extra martial affairs were tolerated, and cheating was not condemned. Today, infidelity is seen as cheating and dysfunctional. Cheaters are called out, and there are social repercussions. The policy of honesty and fidelity in relationships is promoted alongside trust and true love.
Non-consensual Contact
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Physical contact, such as randomly patting someone on the back, holding them, or hugging them, was casually accepted as a sign of greeting. These acts without consent are not accepted now and may result in harassment and sexual assault cases. Even in social settings or informal gatherings, a line must be maintained, and personal boundaries must be respected.
Drunk Behaviour
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In the past, alcohol use was common in social gatherings, and heavy drinking wasn’t seen as a significant issue. There was also less traffic on the roads, a slower pace of life, and moderation had a different level. Today, we’re more aware of the dangers of drunk driving, health risks, and disruptive behavior. Drunk behavior was seen as harmless and people were encouraged to look the other way. Today, that has changed.
Cat Calling Harassment
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Catcalling, which refers to shouting and sexually commenting on others, mainly women, were paid little heed in the past. Often ignored and taken in a humorous manner, people also took pride in it and viewed it as flattery. Today, such public harassment will likely result in aggressive confrontations that lead to conflict.
Allowing Pets to Defecate in Public
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Back in the day, pet owners would let their animals defecate around the city without taking any responsibility, but now it’s seen as very irresponsible and disrespectful towards others. Laws have been made which compel pet owners to clean up their pets’ messes. Fines are imposed if this is not upheld because pet litter may lead to cleanliness and hygiene issues.
Body Shaming
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Until a few decades ago, it was common to comment on peoples’ weight and not expect them to get offended when shamed about their bodies. However, today, body positivity does not leave any room for such comments, which discourages negative remarks from others.
Discrimination in the Workplace
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Throughout history, women have faced barriers, be it in their daily lives or in the corporate environment. These include reduced paychecks, longer working hours, and harassment in the workplace. Such practices are slowly being abolished, and various policies in their favor have been implemented.
Corporal Punishment for Students
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Students were treated harshly in older times, some for the better but a majority for the worse. The harsh treatment of students is now prohibited and largely considered abusive. Teachers are not allowed to use canes or their hands to discipline children. Other such punishments which mentally affect their health and demotivate them are also condemned.
Public Littering
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There was a time when citizens could litter on the streets without much concern for the surroundings or the opinions of others. Today, however, it is against the law to litter openly in most countries, and those who break this usually have to pay fines. With countless summits and conventions on environmental awareness, the goal is to keep our surroundings clean and educate others on waste management.
Distributing Goodies to Children
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Out of kindness and generosity towards a child, people often tend to give them goodies and other kinds of edibles. Previously, this act was not viewed as strange or creepy, but due to the rising human trafficking cases and other possible risks, it is not acceptable. There are increased safety concerns about an immature child who can be driven or bribed easily. What once was considered a good gesture has become paranoia.
18 Classic Movie Quotes That Would Spark Outrage If Said in Today’s Films
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Whether or not you are a movie buff, you’re probably familiar with the famous classic movies that shaped generations. Classic movies often contain iconic lines that have become ingrained in popular culture. However, as we look back, we realize how some of these quotes were downright racist, sexist, or misogynistic and have not aged well with time. Here are 24 classic movie quotes that, if said in today’s films, would likely spark outrage and controversy.