1. Casual Workplace Harassment
The office culture of the ’70s often mirrored what we’d now call a cringe-worthy sitcom. Unwelcome comments, inappropriate jokes, and blatant sexism were commonplace, even seen as “flirting.” The #MeToo movement and workplace regulations have since created a far less tolerant environment for such behavior.
The 1970s were a colorful, freewheeling time, marked by disco, bell-bottoms, and a sense of cultural experimentation. But looking back, some norms and practices from that era would raise eyebrows—or outright outrage—today. Society evolves, and what seemed normal or even celebrated back then might now be viewed as outdated, problematic, or outright unacceptable. Let’s dive into 15 things from the ’70s that wouldn’t fly in today’s world.
2. Smoking Everywhere
In the ’70s, smoking was practically a national pastime. People smoked in offices, airplanes, restaurants, and even hospitals! The dangers of secondhand smoke weren’t widely recognized yet, and tobacco ads glamorized the habit. Today, strict smoking bans and awareness campaigns have drastically reshaped attitudes toward lighting up in public.
3. Disco’s Open Drug Culture
The disco scene wasn’t just about the music—it was a hub for recreational drug use, with substances like cocaine openly used in clubs. While drug culture hasn’t disappeared, today’s awareness of addiction and health risks has made such casual use less socially accepted.
4. Drinking and Driving
Drinking and driving were shockingly normalized in the ’70s. Campaigns like “Don’t Drink and Drive” were only just beginning, and many states had lax enforcement of DUI laws. Today, the idea of hopping behind the wheel after a few drinks is met with widespread condemnation.
5. Kids Without Seatbelts
Children in the ’70s often roamed freely in cars, unrestrained by seatbelts or car seats. It wasn’t uncommon to see kids lying in the back window or bouncing around in the backseat. Modern safety laws and car seat technology have completely changed this once-standard behavior.
6. Racist and Sexist Jokes
In the ’70s, jokes that leaned heavily on stereotypes were staples of stand-up routines and TV sitcoms. Shows like All in the Family tackled such topics but often blurred the line between satire and normalization. Today, humor at the expense of marginalized groups is far less tolerated.
7. Corporally Punishing Kids in Schools
Paddles in classrooms weren’t just a threat—they were used regularly as disciplinary tools. Corporal punishment has since been banned in many places, with modern psychology emphasizing non-violent methods of discipline.
8. Frequent Catcalling
In the ’70s, catcalling was seen as a harmless or even flattering gesture. Women were often expected to brush it off or take it as a compliment. Modern movements advocating for gender equality have reframed street harassment as a serious issue.
9. Lawn Chemicals Everywhere
The perfectly manicured lawns of the ’70s came at a cost: the heavy use of pesticides and fertilizers like DDT. At the time, few people considered the environmental or health impacts. Today’s focus on eco-friendly practices has made such widespread chemical use far less acceptable.
10. TV Shows Glorifying Thinness
The ’70s brought a surge of diet culture, often glorified by television and advertisements. “Slimness” was equated with success and beauty, leading to unhealthy societal pressures. Modern body positivity movements challenge these standards, advocating for diverse representations of beauty.
11. Physical Hazing in Fraternities
Hazing rituals in the ’70s often involved physical and psychological abuse, sometimes leading to injuries or worse. While some forms of hazing persist, heightened awareness and stricter anti-hazing laws have significantly curbed such practices.
12. No Sunscreen Culture
The tan was a status symbol in the ’70s, and people basked in the sun slathered in baby oil rather than sunscreen. Awareness of skin cancer risks has since turned tanning beds and sun worshipping into much more controversial activities.
13. Unregulated Advertisements for Kids
Commercials for sugary cereals, toys, and even cigarettes targeted kids directly, often using cartoon characters to appeal to young audiences. Today’s stricter advertising standards aim to prevent exploitation and promote healthier choices.
14. Animal Cruelty in Entertainment
Circuses, movies, and TV shows of the ’70s frequently used live animals without concern for their welfare. Modern animal rights activism has made such practices increasingly unacceptable, with CGI and humane alternatives taking their place. But even decades ago, Betty White always condemned that brand of “humor” in media and became a champion of animal welfare advocacy. Can she be even more perfect?
15. Open Hostility Toward LGBTQ+ People
The ’70s were a tumultuous time for LGBTQ+ rights, with overt discrimination and ridicule commonplace in media and society. While progress is still ongoing, today’s cultural landscape is far more inclusive and supportive of LGBTQ+ communities.
The 1970s were a different world, shaped by its own set of norms and values. Reflecting on these changes isn’t just about cringing at the past—it’s a testament to how much society can grow. What do you remember from this era, and what do you think we’ll look back on in 50 years and question?
