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We could argue that there's no such thing as a cultural taboo for Gen Z-ers. However, it would be very egocentric to think that. Although humanity as a whole is slowly steering towards being more open-minded and liberal, cultural taboos are here to stay. They might change and evolve in the future, yet it's unlikely that social taboos will cease to exist entirely since there rarely is a subject that the majority would agree on.
Even in a country as open and welcoming as the United States, there are still several taboo subjects to be aware of. Interestingly, in contrast to other nations, cultural taboos in America are seldom directly related to religion or tradition. Instead, taboos in America are often connected to public manners and social conduct, such as wolf whistling or talking about politics or business at the dinner table. And although particular, though very few, taboo things are exclusive to the US (e.g., not leaving a tip at a restaurant), many of them are universal, suggesting that in many countries around the world, the same things and behaviors are deemed socially inappropriate and might get one the side-eye.
However, it's interesting (and sometimes disturbing) that in some places, engaging in certain social taboos may not only result in receiving dirty looks from strangers but may also be punished by law. This is often the case in countries with strong religious grounds. Thus, it's interesting to note that sometimes, cultural taboos are not only enforced by society but also by laws, both federal and religious.
Curious to learn more about fellow Earth inhabitants, we scoured the internet to compile a list of taboos prevalent in certain parts of the world. Although we did our best to gather factually correct and up-to-date examples of taboos in different cultures, if you notice any discrepancies, we kindly ask you to point those out in the comments or send the writer an email so we can improve our content.
Also, we want to stress that the countries or cultures mentioned in brackets don't imply that everyone in that social group holds the same views. Are there any other cultural taboo examples that we forgot to mention? If so, share those in the comments.
This post may include affiliate links.
#1
Being late (Japan, South Korea, Germany & Switzerland) — Several cultures highly value punctuality, so call ahead if you see that you will be late.
Thor Haugen 2 years ago
For a while, my ex and my cousin both lived with me. One is late for everything and the other has to be half an hour early for everything. Both are equally irritating.
A girl 2 years ago
My brother is always late. My husband and I are chronically early. I recently asked him if we annoyed he and his wife as much as he annoyed us. He said yes:)
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Will Cable 2 years ago
Even being late on a conference call I find totally unacceptable. I'm sure those who do it on a regular basis use it as form of control.
- 2 years ago (edited)
I knew someone who was punctual for work, but chronically late for friends (such as 30 minutes late for a restaurant meal). I suspect that the time I gave them was when they chose to leave their home to see me. They told me they had to be punctual for work, so they hated having to be punctual for friends.
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#2
Wearing shoes indoors (Worldwide) — Although Ireland, the UK, the USA, and Australia tend to be less stringent about this practice, the rest of the globe prefers to take off shoes before entering the home.
Debbie 2 years ago
Again and again this comes back.. It is not cultural! In many countries it differs a lot - in the Netherlands you don't usually take your shoes off as far as I know. At least not in my circle of friends - we do take our shoes off to get in more comfy shoes, and often shoes are taken off when going upstairs.
Con O Cuinn 2 years ago
I have a dog. You can take your shoes off if you want, but just so you know my dog doesn't wear shoes outside. If you want dog hair and whatever else on your socks, go for it but I'm not going to make you
I’mSoEmotional 2 years ago
Same. I have 3 dogs and God knows what they track in on their feet, so I vacuum every day and wear shoes as well.
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Peter Korsten 2 years ago
The rest of the world minus Europe, then. No way you would be expected to take off your shoes. It would be extremely rude.
#3
Standing too close (Western world) — Personal space is held in high regard in many Western countries. It can be perceived as overly intimate or an invasion of personal space when people stand too close while conversing.
Will Cable 2 years ago
Had this 2 days running where 2 people have been that close they caused panic in me, total lack of respect for others.
Array Index Out of Bounds 2 years ago
When I was a teen I was in a psychiatric hospital. One of the counselors would get within mere inches of my face when talking to me. I told her to please back up a notch. I was punished ( with restraints) for being insubordinate.
#4
Chewing with your mouth open (Western world) - In Western culture, it's considered inappropriate to chew with one's mouth open, and is seen as gross and ignorant.
Kayjunmoon 2 years ago
Why say ‘worldwide’? This is not true worldwide. Yes, in western culture maybe.
#5
Not leaving any food on the plate (Paraguay & China) — To indicate that you are full and satisfied, it’s recommended to leave some food on the plate in certain countries.
Halo Kremer 2 years ago
My mum experienced this while she was at a friend's house. My mum is Canadian, and her friend is Indian. My mum, thinking that it was polite to clear her plate in the Western tradition, kept eating the food that was given to her. But as soon as she finished her friend would give her more food. This is how she found out that in her friend's culture, you're supposed to leave some food on the plate to show that you are finished. My mum and her friend laugh about this now.
#6
Direct eye contact (Traditional Owners of land in Australia) — While making eye contact is advised in the West as a sign of active listening, in Aboriginal Australian cultures, direct eye contact can be considered rude or even aggressive. The appropriate response in conversation would be to avert or lower your eyes to show proper respect.
Huddo's sister 2 years ago
I didn't know this, but that's probably because I don't use much eye contact either. I'm curious as to whether this is the culture originally or a result of Indigenous peoples being made subservient by settlers?
DaisyGirl 2 years ago
Traditional land owners of Australia. The terms aboriginal is no longer used as the Traditional landowners do not like that term.
Huddo's sister 2 years ago
I have found it depends on the nation and individual. Many do still use Aboriginal, others Indigenous or First Nations. I have not met anyone who uses Traditional Landowners, though this is the usual term in the acknowledgement of country so it is obviously common.
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#7
Taking photos of strangers (Worldwide) — Taking a picture of a stranger without their consent is considered a violation of their privacy. In some instances, it may even be unlawful. Before sharing the photos, it's polite to blur the faces of any people whose faces can be made out in the background.
guyx23 2 years ago
I think it makes a significant difference wether the person is the subject of the photo, or just happens to be in the frame.
John Smith (he/him/xy/️) 2 years ago
No it doesn't. Especially in this modern age with face recognition.
Load More Replies... DennyS (denzoren) 2 years ago
That's just common courtesy really. Ask first and also ask if you're going to publish said photo.
Chl 2 years ago
Well if they don't like it they can say. But I got better things to do then wait.
Load More Replies... #8
Leaving food on the plate (some European countries & Turkey) — If you leave food on the plate, the host might think you didn't like the meal. For Turks, leaving a portion on the plate is considered a sin.
#9
Starting to eat before everyone is at the table and has their food (Worldwide) — It’s standard practice to wait until everyone is seated at the table before digging into your food. If the host is serving the food, you should hold off on eating until after he or she has finished and is seated at the table.
Christoph Pipoli 2 years ago
It's definitely the polite thing to do. The only time it's acceptable, imo, if it's at a restaurant and someone's order was wrong and they say, "Please, go ahead."
Jeremy Klaxon 2 years ago
This rule is stupid. I'm not going to wait awkwardly for my food to be cold out of "politeness". I always start to eat shortly after I'm served, and I tell others to do so. And more often than not, they happily comply. If you're offended, be my guest, wait away and eat your food cold.
John Smith (he/him/xy/️) 2 years ago
Forcing people to wait because you are arrogant enough to think your Instagram feed is more important than the people around you.
Huddo's sister 2 years ago
I don't think this is worldwide, or even linked to a particular culture. I think it varies greatly depending on the formality of the meal and the location, as you would often wait if you are a guest in someone's house, but maybe not in a restaurant. Plus, different family dynamics can come into play. If someone had food insecurity in the past, this might effect whether they wait for others or not.
#10
Showing someone the soles of your feet (Asia & Middle East) — Many countries in Asia and the Middle East find exposing the soles of your feet to another person or tapping somebody with your feet highly offensive.
Con O Cuinn 2 years ago
I find this hard to believe, since Muslims around the world kneel in rows without shoes in mosques all the time.
Khall Khall 2 years ago
Which is weird considering Muay Thai and kicking people in Thailand is a thing.
#11
Haggling (Japan & Sweden) — While it is less common in more developed economies, bartering for a price is part of the culture in some countries (Indonesia, Thailand, Cambodia, and India).
#12
Eating pork (Jewish, Muslim, and some Christian countries) — Muslims don't eat pork primarily because the Holy Quran specifies that some foods are permitted while others are expressly listed as haram or forbidden. And one of those off-limits foods is pork. However, the Holy Quran also makes an exception, stating that you may eat it if you need food and have no other options but pork. This also aligns with Jewish beliefs, which follow kosher meat-eating customs and restrictions.
Cuppa tea? 2 years ago
Most of those rules goes back hundreds or thousands years back. Pigs were really filthy animals, living in their own feces, carrying multiple diseases and posses health risk. Same goes for others prohibited animals. Also, Jews and Arabs were nomad tribes, cannot imagine transversing desert with bunch of unrully pigs.
zak 2 years ago
I never understood this one. Something about animals that don't have cloven hooves, right?
The Short Lady 2 years ago
It probably started because pigs can carry trichinosis so it was a health measure.
Load More Replies... Christoph Pipoli 2 years ago
I, for one, am happy these two religions have this as part of their edict. Bacon would be $50 a pound and lobster would be in the $100 range. It's one of the very few things I am thankful for religions.
#13
Men wearing a dress (Western world) — Although this is swiftly changing as gender norms start to blur, in the West, a man wearing a dress or a skirt may still get a lot of dirty looks, yet in certain other cultures, wearing traditional apparel that resembles a dress is acceptable. Scotland is one Western exception, where men are expected to wear traditional kilts.
Ace 2 years ago
Sure, when you visit Scotland you should ensure that you wear a kilt at all times, that way you'll be welcomed and accepted by the locals...
les 2 years ago
and calling someone a c**t is not necessarily a bad thing, in some parts of scotland it can mean my goor friend or I'm going to beat the s**t of that guy. it can mean both of these at the same time but it all depends on the tone its said in and the context so dont just call anyone in scotland a c**t, that will get you beaten
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#14
Spitting in public places (Worldwide) — Spitting in public sites is prohibited in numerous cities. However, it's interesting to note that police seldom enforce this. Still, spitting in public is generally frowned upon, so it's more strictly enforced culturally than legally.
Bookworm 2 years ago
It seems to be a person in a straw hat spitting in the face of a chicken
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Christoph Pipoli 2 years ago
After Covid, you'd think no one would spit anymore. It was, also, the cause for spreading TB back in the day.
LazyStream 2 years ago
I remember visiting Hong Kong as a young child around 1986. I had to watch everywhere as people were spitting all the time and globs on the path
Der Kommissar 2 years ago
its not the spitting, its the hoicking. Talkin' to you, Chinese people.
#15
Adultery (Worldwide) — A restriction against adultery is either written down or is considered taboo in almost every society's marital law. In reality, it seems adultery is as prevalent and, in some instances, as common as marriage. In Judaism and Christianity, one of the ten commandments is the prohibition of adultery.
Array Index Out of Bounds 2 years ago
There is no pain quite like finding out your partner is cheating.
Nicole Weymann 2 years ago
What happens between *consenting(!)* adults should be their business - if a couple agrees on an "open" relationship and don't keep their bed partners in the dark about future prospects I don't see why a church, government or judge should get involved.
Load More Replies... #16
Discussing business at dinner (Worldwide) — In some places, discussing business during a casual supper is considered impolite.
Array Index Out of Bounds 2 years ago
This one doesn't make sense to me. Some of the biggest deals/ mergers were cemented over a meal.
Diolla 1 year ago
Business dinners are different from , say, family dinners, I think that's what OP was aiming at. My parents used to work for the same company but avoided talking shop during dinner.
Load More Replies... #17
Wearing shorts (Morocco) — Even at the height of summer, males are typically expected to wear long pants. Young men or boys may be seen wearing shorts, but long pants are often the most common.
DennyS (denzoren) 2 years ago
In Trinidad we can't access any offices or government institutions in shorts, vests or flip flops...even when it's 35°C. Need to renew your driver's license but you're wearing shorts? Oh hell no. Lol
Der Kommissar 2 years ago
to some Thais, dressing informally (shorts, t shirt, flip flops,) is considered impolite. The more you dress up, the more polite you are considered. That's why its easy to spot tourists there as opposed to farangs that work in the Kingdom
Duke Kilroy 2 years ago
I care too much about not sweating my a*s off to care if someone thinks I'm too grown up to dress for the weather.
#18
Polygamy (Western world) — While polygamy, or having multiple spouses at once, is still taboo in Western culture, it's relatively common worldwide. Of 200 sovereign states, 58 allow polygamy, including most African and Middle Eastern countries.
John Smith (he/him/xy/️) 2 years ago
Mostly men having multiple wives. Never the other way around. Misogyny
S Mi 2 years ago (edited)
Single gender polygamy (for example where only men can have multiple wives, but women may not have multiple husbands) only works from a society pov under certain circumstances. Since our birthrate is approximately 50/50 if one man has 4 wives, 3 men don't get to marry a woman. One example is war time, where young men are more likely to die, leaving more young woman without partners. Outside of that, it's seriously destabilizing unless practiced by all genders.
#19
Menstruation (Worldwide) — Many cultures still view a woman as "unclean" when she has her period. In parts of Indonesia, India, western Nepal, and among tribes of Nigeria, menstruating women are still shunned from social and religious events and occasionally even their own kitchens. According to Unicef, 70% of Afghani females avoid taking a bath or shower during their periods out of concern about infertility.
Stardust she/her 2 years ago
In india menstruating women used to be banned from their kitchens and sometimes houses and made to stay somewhere else. They’re also banned from touching pickles because they might contaminate them and spoil them
Huddo's sister 2 years ago
I believe in Jewish (at least Orthodox) culture couples have to sleep apart during that time and can't resume co-sleeping until she has washed in the ritual bath house (I only know about this from a fantastic tv series I watched- Unchained)
John Smith (he/him/xy/️) 2 years ago
People with open wounds on their hands should not handle food either. Blood can carry diseases.
#20
Swearing (Worldwide) — Foul words can be found in most languages. However, swearing is frowned upon, especially in professional and formal settings.
Eleven's eggos (She/Her) 2 years ago
Flashback to the time the Aussie PM was accused of faking *accidentally* swearing to seem more approachable by the public
#21
Questioning authority figures (countries with authoritarian governments) — Citizens of nations under authoritarian governments often have fewer rights and privileges. They are restricted in their ability to freely practice their religion, express themselves, or elect their leaders in free and fair elections.
#22
Burping and flatulence (Worldwide) — Most countries view burping and flatulence as inappropriate behaviors in almost all social environments.
Tyranamar Seuss 2 years ago
In old Eskimo culture these were signs of a good meal. Not sure what it's like now. But I'd say this is not worldwide.
Sapna Sarfare 2 years ago
Burping is considered appreciation of food in India. Farting... nope
#23
Asking a woman’s age (Western world) — Because youth is valued in Western cultures, some women find growing older disconcerting. Therefore, asking them their age could be seen as highly offensive.
Glengoolie Blue 2 years ago
If you have a problem facing your factual age, that's your hang up and you need to figure out why you have it. Don't ask me to tiptoe around a legitimate topic of conversation just because you're trying to hide something from yourself.
Cool_Alien 2 years ago
That's most likely a "hangup" because older people, especially older women, truly are perceived as losing their value. Hollywood is a great example of this where 50/60 yo men are often paired with women in their 20s and 30s. Constant reminders that, as a woman, your attraction wanes after 35 makes it a reasonable "problem facing your factual age." Also, also, regardless of any of this, people are allowed to decide what is a legitimate topic of conversation re their personal info.
Load More Replies... #24
Showing your hair as a female (Muslim countries) — The fact that the hijab does not appear anywhere in the Qur'an surprises many people. When used, it serves as a "curtain" or "barrier" meant to keep others from the Prophet Muhammad's wives. More generally, the hijab indicates modest behavior, and both men and women must dress modestly according to the Qur'an.
James Heinle 2 years ago
Modest behavior... She looks like she's ready to go skiing or to rob a bank.
Huddo's sister 2 years ago
This is evident in the different Muslim countries where the type of head covering is different and whether they wear it all the time in public or only in the mosque
#25
Birth control (Catholic countries) — The Catholic Church has long insisted that using contraception to stop the conception of new human beings is inherently immoral.
Nikki Sevven 2 years ago (edited)
What's immoral is insisting that people reproduce while being obscenely wealthy, yet not paying to feed, clothe, house, and provide health care for the billions in poverty. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_wealthiest_religious_organizations
Peter Korsten 2 years ago
The opinion of a bunch of single men about procreation and intimate relationships may not be very relevant in this day and age.
#26
Celebrating birthdays (Jehovah's Witnesses) — Most holidays and occasions honoring people who aren't Jesus are not observed by Jehovah's Witnesses. That includes holidays like Mother's Day, Valentine's Day, and birthdays.
Array Index Out of Bounds 2 years ago
My best friend in high school was a Jehovah's Witness. They didn't celebrate Christmas, but he and his two brothers all got off-road motorcycles for their parents' wedding anniversary. I'll admit, I was a little jealous.
#27
Drinking alcohol (some Arabic countries) — While drinking alcohol is generally accepted in Judaism and Christianity, it is haram (or prohibited) in Islam.
Der Kommissar 2 years ago
Dubai and Bahrain are Arab/Muslim places where you can drink alcohol.
Diolla 1 year ago
It is prohibited for Muslims, not for everybody. Also, not all Muslims are equally obedient :-D
Load More Replies... Huddo's sister 2 years ago
I believe in Oman you can drink alcohol but have to get a licence? Or at least if you are a migrant
#28
Don’t share a plate of food (Nepal) — Never share food from the same plate in Nepal because, in contrast to Korean eating, after it has been touched by one person, it is deemed nasty to be eaten by another.
naomy ramsey 2 years ago
Tons of reasons to not share food/ utensils etc... Get away from my plate ! Even at home, you can get your own!
Glengoolie Blue 2 years ago
Um, doesn't someone touch it during preparation/cooking? Does each individual have to gather, transport, prepare, cook and serve their own food to avoid having someone else touch it?
naomy ramsey 2 years ago
Yes. But we're funny about the "after it is prepared thing" . But I'm with you, I start thinking about everybody who's touched it before it got to me.
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#29
Leaving the office before your boss (Japan) — The concept of "I can't leave until the boss does" is widespread in Japan. It's frowned upon for lower-level employees to leave the workplace before their supervisor, and doing so might hurt their chances of getting promoted.
OneHappyPuppy 2 years ago
That's a bit tricky when your boss is also the owner and has to lock up when everyone leaves, like my boss so...
Glengoolie Blue 2 years ago
Leave the office as soon as you stop getting paid, and return as soon as you start getting paid.
#30
Couples arguing in public (Worldwide) — Although every couple has disagreements and arguments, most people expect couples to present a united front, at least in public.
Nikki Sevven 2 years ago
I used to hate this when I was bartending. You were already arguing and you thought, "You know what'll improve this situation? Alcohol." No. Go home until you can behave in public.
Christoph Pipoli 2 years ago
I guess whoever posted this is unfamiliar with YouTube and TikTok. Lol
#31
Refusing a gift (Worldwide) — Most cultures expect people to accept gifts respectfully. It may be offensive to the person who chose your present to let them know you don't like it or that you'd prefer to return it to the store.
Rilmar 2 years ago
In Poland it's the norm and just polite to act reluctant when offered something. Accepting stuff straight away is seen as kind of rude
Diolla 1 year ago
Yes! "Oh, really, you shouldn't have " or "that's really not necessary" and after that be grateful. I think it's like that in several countries.
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Bribery (Worldwide) — Even in cultures where bribery is a widespread and highly publicized problem, it's still considered taboo to discuss.
Christoph Pipoli 2 years ago
Not according to Clarence Thomas who is part of our Supreme Court.🤦♂️
#33
Public displays of affection (Worldwide) — Couples should avoid overt displays of affection, particularly among more traditional cultural groups. While "free love" and PDA are more widespread in the Western world, public handholding and kissing are frowned upon in conservative regions of the globe.
Thor Haugen 2 years ago
I can't wait for the day when EVERY couple can hug, kiss, or hold hands in all the countries of the world. Making out should remain private IMO, but there is no reason that holding hands should be an issue for any consenting adults anywhere.
The Doom Song 2 years ago
Personally I think PDA is gross. I worked in hospitality for 15 years. I've seen some stuff that I wish I could unsee
#34
Head touching or patting (some Asian countries) — In countries with sizable Buddhist populations, such as Thailand, China, Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar, touching someone's head or hair is considered offensive since the head is considered sacred, and the body's purest part. Touching someone's head is an incredibly invasive gesture. This also applies to some Hindu religious cultures.
#35
Not leaving a tip at a restaurant (USA) — While tipping is not considered standard practice in some countries, it is in the United States of America. Although nothing would happen if you didn't tip, tipping in America has become so customary that not tipping would be considered rude.
John Smith (he/him/xy/️) 2 years ago
Tipping is a bonus for doing a good job. Not for doing your actual job. Leave it to the bakermat of slaver.... Ehm capitalism to underpay serving staff and then force your customers to compensate your Scrooge a*s.
SeaLouse 2 years ago
My rule is that if someone either serves me at my table or I leave behind dishes someone has to grab, I tip. I can't believe that some people would actually leave their table a mess an then not tip. Pigs
Diolla 1 year ago
Why would I leave a tip? Person gets paid for doing their job. I don't get tipped either most of the time when I do my work. But ageee with you, if you left a place very messy a tip is nice, as an apology.
Load More Replies... #36
Public nudity (Worldwide) — Generally, being fully naked in public is taboo. Nearly everywhere in the world, if you're seen walking around naked, expect people to be in complete awe (some take their phones out) and the police to show up.
#37
Eating dog meat (Western world) — While it is taboo in Western countries, in some parts of China, South Korea, the Philippines, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia, eating dog meat is acceptable.
Ace 2 years ago (edited)
Not so much a taboo, just that it really doesn't taste very nice. Poorer peoples historically have found ways to make it acceptable with lots of spices and flavours, just as they have with other foods that richer folk may have considered 'peasant food'. You're not going to eat dog if you can eat fillet steak whenever you want.
#38
Placing your elbows on the table (Western world) — In Western countries, putting your elbows on the table is considered impolite.
Huddo's sister 2 years ago
I haven't observed anyone worrying about this since I was a young kid.
WR 2 years ago
Created in the Victorian era to identify people who served on ships. If you served on a ship, and you wanted to keep your food on the table you needed to use your elbows. Sometimes, crews would come by looking for extra hands and conscript people for duty. They would do this by looking for people who had their elbows on the table, get them drunk. And then Shanghai them. That's where the turm Shanghai comes from. So mothers would say, your elbows off the table, to keep their kids from getting shanghaied!
#39
Chewing gum in public (Worldwide) — Some view chewing gum as low-class and impolite. Gum is often spat out on the streets, which can also be associated with filthiness.
Huddo's sister 2 years ago
Chewing gum banned in schools in Australia, but I think that's more because kids will stick it to the underside of tables (I have seen more than one table top held on only by gum!), rather than it being impolite. I suppose if you are chewing it with your mouth open it could be rude too A lot of people would say it is a good thing where it is brands that promote fresh breath etc.
Array Index Out of Bounds 2 years ago
Not sure if this is true, but heard that chewing gum is illegal in Jamaica.
Eleven's eggos (She/Her) 2 years ago
Not sure about Jamaica but it is definitely illegal in Singapore
Load More Replies... #40
Offering to split the bill (Thailand) — Whereas many cultures expect diners to divide the cost, the host is typically expected to pay the bill in Thailand.
Nicole Weymann 2 years ago
If there is a "host" IMO that implies an invitation and thus them paying the bill, otherwise it should be stated beforehand (not a problem, though).
James Heinle 2 years ago
It really isn't right to split the bill when one person orders a salad and another orders a steak.
Eleven's eggos (She/Her) 2 years ago
Where i come from usually when the bill is split it means everyone pays for what they ordered
Load More Replies... #41
Standing above the tribal chief (African countries) — When speaking to a tribal leader in many African nations, people are expected to keep their heads below his.
#42
Discussing your wealth or income (Worldwide) - In Britain, like in many other countries, it is highly taboo to discuss your wealth and income. However, in a modern setting, the long-held restraint about money conversations might be more related to people's anxiety about their finances rather than being rude.
Fat Harry 2 years ago
It's just seen as crass. My parents went on some cruise holidays with people from around the world, and they said it was always the Americans who asked straight away "What do you do and how much do you make?".
Thor Haugen 2 years ago
Honestly, I as an American who takes cruises, I have never asked that. I have asked people's opinions about Brexit, Trump, and other political issues. I once got into a heated discussion about the role of corporations in American society during a Captain's dinner (more heated on the other person's side; she was drunk). I guess that makes me crass, but I care more about how people see the world than what they do to live. And I do listen.
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Huddo's sister 2 years ago
But if you are in Australia, you may talk about the great deals you get in op shops! :) Many times on nights out I'm had my clothes complimented and I proudly say I got it in the op shop and then there is mutual admiration lol
#43
Showing your shoulders (Arab countries) — In many Arab nations, women are expected to dress conservatively. Western women visiting Morocco or UAE frequently drape shawls over their shoulders to show respect for their host culture.
Diolla 1 year ago
Not just shoulders. Also midriff, back, knees, etc. And in some places, your head. Really if you want to be respected in these countries, just wear modest dresses and carry a scarf in case you want to enter a religious area or ceremony. And covering shoulders etc is also required when visiting Catholic churches.
#44
Homosexuality (Most Muslim and Christian cultures) — As of 2023, 34 countries, predominantly in Europe and the Americas, have passed national legislation permitting homosexual marriage. However, some of the major religions have rules against homosexuality. According to the National Secular Society, more than 90% of the people who live in countries that forbid same-sex partnerships are Muslim or Christian.
The Doom Song 2 years ago
As long as it's consenting adults I don't really care who you sleep with
Huddo's sister 2 years ago
Thankfully there are plenty of Christian denominations that do not discriminate against homosexuality. In my denomination we have a lot of homosexual ministers.
CatLady 2 years ago
I'm presently getting spiritual counselling from a nonbinary pastor who is married to my ex boyfriend's ex wife. I know the connection is weird, but they are amazing, nonjudgmental, really helping me heal from the trauma of growing up in a repressive, patriarchal denomination. Their church is filled with people from repressive denominations who thought they were hell-bound because of their sexuality (not my issue; I'm straight), but they gently coach these folks through it, show them how to interpret Scripture to understand that God made and loves them just as they are. Also, did you know that there are a few rainbow mosques now? At least one in Toronto. I love that so much, that queer people from that faith can find a refuge and know God loves them too. Change is happening. Too slowly, but at least it's happening.
Load More Replies... #45
Kosher (non-Jewish countries) — Similar to halal, kosher is a set of regulations governing what and how Jews can eat. Dairy and meat, for instance, cannot be consumed together.
Der Kommissar 2 years ago
In Israel you can buy pork products and seafood in markets and order them in restaurants.
Huddo's sister 2 years ago
Is this because there is a difference between Orthodox and non-Orthodox Jews or just the assumption that faith (and by extension kosher) is a personal thing and the whole population shouldn't be forced to follow it if they don't want?
Load More Replies... #46
Halal meat (non-Muslim countries) — Although halal is not just meant for Muslims, it's relatively taboo to use the halal method (butchering an animal by cutting the major blood vessels to ensure rapid and complete blood loss) in non-Muslim countries. Likewise, eating haram food (forbidden food) is considered taboo in Muslim countries.
Tyranamar Seuss 2 years ago
Um. There's no taboo here about eating halal or kosher even if your not of that religion. Not that I'm aware of. A lot of times halal and kosher meat is cleaner.
Diolla 1 year ago
EATING halal is not taboo for non-muslims but the halal method of killing is not allowed in many places.
Load More Replies... #47
Going against superstitions (Worldwide) — People often avoid doing superstitious things like opening an umbrella inside a house or moving a package of salt from one hand to another because they believe doing so will bring bad luck. Going against superstitions and doing the opposite is considered taboo. Christianity is generally against trusting in manmade superstitions.
Ace 2 years ago (edited)
No, Christianity, like other religions, is absolutely 100% about trusting in man-made superstitions. They're just very selective about which ones they insist on trusting and which ones they don't.
Glengoolie Blue 2 years ago
Religion is stupid. Let's just sum it up and leave it at that.
Load More Replies... Huddo's sister 2 years ago
The decision on whether something is superstitious or not I think is on whether people outside of it believe it is rational or not. Also, many superstitions are either only followed culturally (like a force of habit) rather than because of belief, or not followed at all these days.
#48
Pointing at someone’s chest (Worldwide) — Pointing at objects is acceptable in many countries worldwide. However, it's considered rude and even provocative to point directly at someone, especially at their chest.
Huddo's sister 2 years ago
I haven't heard of it being chest-specific, but I also never understood the 'pointing is rude' thing in general. Why? Thankfully it is rarely mentioned in Australia these days.
Diolla 1 year ago
Because by pointing at someone you might be cursing it (traditional belief).
Load More Replies... James Heinle 2 years ago
Not only their chest but pointing your finger in someone's face is disrespectful and subject to consequences and repercussions
Glengoolie Blue 2 years ago
I've found that in the US, women don't like it when I point at their chests.
#49
Yawning in public (Worldwide) - Yawning is considered rude and may be perceived as disrespectful since it indicates disinterest in the conversation. Covering our mouth can be a nonverbal gesture to indicate that you do not want to seem impolite—even if it doesn't disguise the yawn.
Glengoolie Blue 2 years ago
Isn't yawning kind of involuntary? I can apologize afterward, but I can't hold it like a fart.
CatLady 2 years ago
Holding in farts is really bad for your colon health (heavy history of colon cancer in the family; I am a crusader for colon health... don't die of embarrassment, get your colonoscopies!). Please only do it when absolutely necessary.
Load More Replies... Huddo's sister 2 years ago (edited)
Another one I've never understood Is it the yawn that's impolite, the view of an open mouth, or what. I wasn't brought up to cover my mouth or ask to be excused, but not I do because when I got to high school my friends said it was rude so I wanted to fit in with them and now it's just as involuntary as the yawn. I am also still salty that my grade 2 teacher yelled at me for yawning in class because she thought I was doing it purposely to mock someone (which I would never have done, as I barely even spoke to anyone because I was new to the school) rather than it being an involuntary thing because I was tired!
#50
Abortion (Worldwide) — Although many countries have legalized abortion, most religions continue to condemn it, and it's still considered taboo. As of April 26, 2023, 19 states in the USA have banned or restricted abortion.
Ace 2 years ago
Nothing really to do with religion, just male-dominated society. It's very sad to see the US denying women basic rights over their own bodies.
Andy 2 years ago
I would disagree that religion does not play a part. I currently live in a country where abortion is illegal, and the big push behind keeping it that way is the Catholicism. You will find plenty of woman here who believe if God has decided a woman should be pregnant, it's "murdering an innocent" to interfere with that plan.
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Huddo's sister 2 years ago
I don't think the law always reflects whether the population finds abortion taboo.
#51
Discussing religion at dinner (Worldwide) — Religion often causes disputes, much like politics. Discussing religion at work is also frowned upon in order to maintain an inclusive workplace.
Huddo's sister 2 years ago
Meh, I've had many conversations about religion (and politics) without disputes. In the workplace it really depends who it is and what the workplace is. I work at after school care, often in Catholic schools. If a kid asks about God I am able to respectfully tell them what I believe and (as I have a Catholic teaching accreditation) what Catholics generally believe. With co-workers who have asked, I have said what I believe and that no matter what others believe I will respect them. If they want to talk in-depth I'm open to it but usually it's not. I wouldn't generally talk about religion without a prompt though, I don't want/need to convert anyone.
#52
Putting your hands in your pockets (Worldwide) — Putting your hands in your pockets might be perceived as overly nonchalant, depending on the circumstance. Try to avoid reaching into your pockets when around influential individuals or those with whom you are doing business.
Huddo's sister 2 years ago
Never heard this. Maybe in the first half of last centenary? I did hear recently that people shouldn't have hands in their pockets when using stairs in case you fall. I just need to have something to do with my hands, so if I have pockets then I will use them!
#53
Talking about death (Western world) — Death and dying have always been taboo subjects in Western culture, despite their inevitable nature. Instead of just saying “die,” other expressions, such as “go to a better place,” are often used to “soften” the subject.
Huddo's sister 2 years ago
I hate euphemisms! I do say 'pass away' if I think I am going to offend someone, like if they are grieving, but I much prefer to just say die. Although technically my brothers did 'pass away' in that they had breathing apparatus and then they passed out from lack of oxygen, they actually died! I am always very frank when I talk about death, especially theirs, as it is a part of my life story and I think it helps people understand my opinions on things. Talking about it doesn't devastate me, regardless of what words I use, but as I say, if someone else is going through it I will try to be respectful.
James Heinle 2 years ago (edited)
I don't use certain words when discussing death as I feel it is a somber and solemn subject and some phrases just seem disrespectful or aren't as honorable as they should be.
Huddo's sister 2 years ago
Can I ask which words you consider disrespectful? Is it because they seem callous or because dead people should be placed in high esteem? I'm curious because I feel like my early introduction to death has possibly warped my opinions
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#55
Taking drugs (Worldwide) — Non-medical drugs are outlawed in almost every country.
#56
Eating with your fingers (Western world) — Eating with your fingers is regarded as very impolite and low-class in formal settings.
Ace 2 years ago
Many parts of the world only ever eat with their fingers, so this is nonsense. Even in 'polite' company there are some foods that are acceptable to pick up and eat from your hand.
Chl 2 years ago
Ethiopian bread. [Sorry, forgot what it's actually called.].
Load More Replies... James Heinle 2 years ago
Nachos, cheeseburger, sandwich, donuts, pop tarts, danish... There's all kinds of food people eat with there hands.
Load More Replies... Sapna Sarfare 2 years ago
Not a worldwide phenomenon... many countries have food which are eaten with hands
Stardust she/her 2 years ago
Wtf? Here in the Indian subcontinent you literally have meals that can’t be eaten through any other means except by your hand. Even in formal company you still usually eat with your hands
Nikki Sevven 2 years ago
Sure. People always use a knife and fork to eat the bread served with dinner.
#57
Using a fork instead of chopsticks (some Asian countries) — Due to the stigma attached to using a knife and fork at restaurants in Asia, some people opt not to do so.
Sapna Sarfare 2 years ago
Specify the countries please... Indians prefer eating with hands but are not averse to using cutlery... no taboo at all
#58
Eating before saying a prayer (Christian cultures) — Before a meal, Christians have a long-standing tradition of pausing and giving thanks to God. If you are dining with a really religious household, you should refrain from starting to eat until the host says grace.
Huddo's sister 2 years ago (edited)
2, 4, 6, 8, bog in, don't wait! My mum always wanted us to say grace, at least for Sunday dinners, because her parents would, so encouraged us to use ones we used at youth camps etc, but none of us were particularly keen, regardless of our faith. She gave up trying by the time I was in my 20 and now that her parents have both died she doesn't say it at all. I don't know if it's the public prayer or the fact it is just recitation, but I have never liked saying grace. I thank God for many things, but usually in my head. I also never liked having to wait before eating, especially since we usually said it after we had served our selves.
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