Over the centuries, society has often cast suspicion on various forms of entertainment and behavior, branding them as threats to moral integrity that lead the youth astray. Let’s explore once-feared activities and influences, revealing how societal fears reflect deeper anxieties about cultural change.
Makeup
Makeup, particularly during the Victorian era, was often associated with deceit and vanity. Religious and social leaders warned that women who wore makeup were trying to seduce men and hide their true selves. This belief persisted into the 20th century, with makeup only becoming socially acceptable after famous movie stars made it popular.
Jazz
Jazz music, originating from African American communities, was deemed a corrupting influence during the 1920s in America. Critics labeled it “the devil’s music” for its syncopated rhythms and what they saw as its encouragement of free-spiritedness and rebellion against social norms. Despite this, jazz flourished and became a defining cultural force.
Bowling Alleys
In the early 20th century, bowling alleys were seen as immoral places, often associated with gambling and alcohol consumption. They were frequently targeted by reformers and law enforcement as spaces that encouraged debauchery among young men. This perception shifted only after bowling became more family-oriented and organized into leagues.
Chess
Chess was once viewed with deep suspicion by church authorities in Europe, who feared it encouraged gambling and distracted from religious study. In 1061, Cardinal Damiani of Ostia wrote to Pope Alexander II, condemning the clergy’s obsession with the game. This led to the game being briefly banned in France during the 13th century.
Rock ‘n’ Roll
Rock ‘n’ roll music was viewed as a threat to the morality when it emerged in the 1950s, blamed for promoting sexual promiscuity and juvenile delinquency. Authorities and some segments of the public feared its rhythmic beats and electrifying performances would lead youth astray. Despite such fears, rock ‘n’ roll evolved into one of the most influential genres in music history.
Miniskirts
In the 1960s, miniskirts were seen as a symbol of youthful rebellion and moral decline. Critics argued that they were indecent and encouraged promiscuous behavior among young women. The miniskirt became a cultural icon of the era, often worn as a statement of liberation.
Video Games
Since their widespread adoption in the 1980s, video games have been criticized for promoting violence and antisocial behavior. Critics argue that exposure to video game violence might desensitize players to real-life violence and lead to increased aggression. This debate continues today, with ongoing research into the effects of video gaming on behavior.
Dancing
Historically, many societies have viewed dancing, especially between men and women in public, as a precursor to immoral behavior. It was often banned or severely regulated by religious and secular authorities who feared that it could lead to sexual promiscuity. Over time, social dances became more accepted, although they often still faced scrutiny.
Novels
In the 18th century, novels were thought to corrupt young women by promoting romantic fantasies and leading them away from their domestic duties. Critics warned that reading such fiction could stir improper emotions and desires. As a result, parents and educators often discouraged young women from reading novels, fearing they would lead to moral decay.
The Waltz
The waltz, when it arrived in polite society in the 18th century, was considered scandalous due to the close hold between partners. Detractors claimed that its turning motion and physical closeness would inevitably lead to diminished morals. Despite the controversy, or perhaps because of it, the waltz became increasingly popular throughout Europe.
Coffee Houses
In the 17th century, coffee houses were viewed as hotbeds of revolutionary thought and immoral behavior, particularly in England and France. Authorities feared that these social hubs encouraged gossip, political discussion, and dissent. In 1675, Charles II of England even attempted to suppress coffee houses as places where people could conspire against the monarchy.
Television
Television was feared to be a corrupting influence since its popularization in the 1950s. Critics worried that it promoted laziness, violence, and the breakdown of family communication. These fears have persisted with varying intensity, shifting towards concerns over screen time and content suitability.
The Telephone
When the telephone was introduced, it was feared as a tool that young people would use to arrange secret liaisons or to escape parental supervision. Critics warned that it would lead to a breakdown in societal norms about proper communication. The telephone, however, quickly became indispensable for business and emergency communication, tempering initial fears.
Flappers
Flappers of the 1920s, with their bobbed hair, makeup, and short skirts, were seen as a challenge to traditional gender roles and morality. They were often criticized for their perceived promiscuity and use of alcohol and tobacco. Flappers symbolized a new freedom for women, though they were frequently met with moral panic.
Comic Books
In the 1950s, comic books were blamed for corrupting the youth, with critics arguing that they promoted violent and antisocial behavior. This led to a Senate investigation and the creation of the Comics Code Authority to regulate the content of comics. The panic over comic books is now seen as part of a broader fear of youth culture and media.
Tarot Cards
Tarot cards were historically seen as tools of the occult, promoting witchcraft and immorality. They were feared by religious groups who believed that tarot reading was blasphemous and led people away from the true faith. Today, tarot cards are more commonly viewed as a method for reflection and psychological insight.
Yoga
Initially, when yoga began to spread in the Western world, it was met with skepticism and was often criticized by conservative groups who claimed it promoted Eastern mysticism that conflicted with Christian values. It was feared to promote a New Age philosophy that was seen as morally questionable. Yoga is now widely practiced worldwide for its physical and mental health benefits.
Pool Halls
Pool halls were once branded as dens of vice, associated with gambling, drinking, and violence. They were targeted during various moral reform movements as places that corrupted youth. Over time, pool and billiards have become recognized as legitimate sports, shedding much of their negative reputation.
Skateboarding
In its early days, skateboarding was often associated with vandalism and a disregard for public safety, leading communities to restrict or ban the activity. Critics saw skateboarders as rebels who disrespected property and posed a threat to social order. Today, skateboarding is recognized as a sport and a significant cultural influence, even included in the Olympics.
The Internet
Since its advent, the internet has been criticized for providing easy access to pornography and other adult content, which many believe can lead to moral degradation. Concerns about privacy, cyberbullying, and internet addiction have also been raised as moral issues.
Science Fiction
In the mid-20th century, science fiction was often viewed with suspicion as it explored themes that challenged traditional views and moral norms. It was thought to promote fantastical, sometimes nihilistic visions of the future that could lead to despair or moral relativism.
Pinball Machines
Pinball machines were banned in many cities across the United States up until the 1970s, often grouped with gambling devices that were thought to corrupt the youth. Critics argued that pinball was a game of chance, not skill, promoting gambling behaviors. The perception of pinball changed after a landmark court case proved it was a game of skill, leading to the lifting of bans.
Jazzercise
In the 1980s, Jazzercise and similar aerobic exercise programs were scrutinized for promoting immodesty through form-fitting workout attire and suggestive movements. Critics feared that these programs, often led by women for women, might encourage inappropriate behavior.
