Taboos are cultural or moral prohibitions on certain activities, objects, people, or places. They can be related to sacred or profane things, and some have a logical basis. Breaking taboos is considered rude and may be punishable by law. It’s important to study social rules to avoid offending others.
A taboo is a prohibition against a particular activity, usually rooted in cultural or moral beliefs. Objects, people and places can also be described as taboo in the sense that they are prohibited or that specific rules surround them. The term “taboo” comes from the Tongan word tabu, and was introduced into English by Captain Cook, who made note of Polynesian traditions surrounding taboo, along with the word, during his expeditions to the area. Many cultures have a history of some form of taboo, even if this word has not been used specifically.
In some cases, a taboo applies to something that is considered so sacred that special rules surround how people can interact with it. For example, Catholics and other Christians who receive communion believe that dropping the Host on the ground is taboo, because the Host is sacred and should be treated with special care and respect. Other taboos are related to things that are considered profane, as seen in the menstrual taboos common to many cultures, where women were kept confined during their menses because they were deemed impure.
Some taboos seem to have a root in logical behavior. Many cultures have taboos around dealing with the dead, spoiling food, and other activities that could be dangerous, and it’s possible that what began as practical advice has turned into a taboo as a society has evolved. Likewise, many cultures have complex rules about how to behave around royalty, which no doubt stemmed from concerned rulers who wanted to consolidate and strengthen their power. Other taboos appear to have no rational basis on the surface, but are still rigidly observed.
People may also jokingly refer to a “taboo topic,” referring to something that isn’t considered polite or appropriate conversation. In a group of people of mixed political beliefs, politics can be a forbidden topic and topics such as bodily functions are considered inappropriate at the dinner table in many societies.
Individuals who do not respect taboos are generally considered rude and, in some cases, their offenses may be considered punishable by law. People who intend to interact with individuals from a different cultural background are often advised to study social rules and prohibited activities so as not to inadvertently offend by violating a taboo. Numerous texts address specific social norms in cultures around the world so people can prepare for travel, business negotiations, and other types of interactions where taboos may become a problem.
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