17 Public Behaviors from the Past That Would Spark Social Media Backlash Today
The past decades marked acid-wash jeans as high fashion and “don’t sweat it” as the perfect life advice for young generations. Smoking on airplanes and the inclusion of casual bigotry in everyday conversations were commonplace as well. However, in the 21st century, these have changed. Here are 17 public behaviors that will get you roasted on social media today.
This post may contain affiliate links meaning I get commissions for purchases made in this post. Read my disclosure policy here.
Smoking Everywhere
Be it a crowded restaurant or a builder’s office, a pack of cigarettes used to be a person’s forever companion. However, now, smoking in public places is something that can spark outrage. Due to health concerns, social media can erupt if a person is spotted doing so.
Casual Racism & Sexism
Gone are the days when people wouldn’t consider an off-color joke or an insensitive act as regular. As of today, anything can go viral in minutes. Jokes and comments were commonly based on race and gender. Today, this is not acceptable.
Brownface & Blackface
If we take a trip down memory lane, makeup artists use brownface and blackface makeup to portray characters of different races in plays, movies, and TV series. However, this will be condemned on social media now. It is a sign of disrespect. This emphasizes the need for diverse casting.
Corporal Punishment
This was common in educational institutions back in the day. Paddling students or spanking children in public was typical back then. At present, this will undoubtedly ignite a social media firestorm. This is considered to be a matter of physical violence and child abuse.
Animal Cruelty for Entertainment
People used to train animals for circuses and use live animals for product testing and demonstrations. Animal rights activists condemned such acts, and people have started boycotting such entertainment. Today’s hyper-connected world doesn’t let people use animals for entertainment.
Littering Without a Care
Until recently, people could be seen tossing cigarette butts, plastic wrappers, empty soda cans, etc. on the street. Owing to climate change awareness, people have become concerned about the protection of the earth. Due to increasing environmental awareness, social media slams littering on the whole. In addition to this, people are adopting eco-friendly practices.
Public Drunkenness Ignored
In the past, if you passed out on a park bench, it was all fun, and you had a great story to tell. Today, this is one topic that can spark fierce debate. Topics like public intoxication are highlighted now and then on social media. Stumbling home from a bar is no longer cool. Instead, it tells the world that you have an alcohol problem.
Openly Body-Shaming
Previously, teasing people about their weight, appearance, or clothing choices was often dismissed without considering the consequences. Today, however, such behavior is recognized as bullying and body shaming. In response, there is a strong movement towards promoting body positivity.
Disrespecting Personal Space
In the past, crowded concerts and packed airplanes symbolized a “space for all” mentality. However, with the advent of social media and changing societal norms, such situations are now often seen as inconsiderate and intrusive.
Disabled Parking Abuse
Parking in handicapped spaces is an issue that has garnered attention over the years. You can’t use reserved spots for the disabled without a permit. It is thought of as a sign of disrespect at present. This shortcut can cause your reputation to take a hit and your wallet to get hit by a fine.
Ignoring Food Allergies
In the past, allergies were often overlooked, but now we have clear labeling on food products to address this issue. This ensures that food allergies are taken seriously, helping individuals avoid rashes, other side effects, or anaphylactic shock.
Spoiling Movie Endings
In the past, revealing major plot twists was commonplace, but today, it’s deemed inconsiderate. With the rise of streaming services and social media, avoiding spoilers has become the norm. People now value the experience of watching a movie or series without prior knowledge of crucial plot points.
Noisy Public Phone Calls
Are you one of those who used to yell into a call while traveling on public transport? Nowadays, this behavior is intensely criticized. Speaking in a low tone is public etiquette while traveling in public places.
Disregard for Noise Levels
Previously, there were no restrictions on decibel levels or loudspeakers. In contrast, we now have set limits to control noise pollution, and socially active websites often call out those who fail to comply with these regulations.
Dismissive Environmental Practices
In the past, people excessively used single-use plastics without considering the environmental impact of participating in recycling programs. This lack of awareness led to significant pollution and waste. Today, however, social media has played a crucial role in promoting environmental awareness. These efforts have successfully encouraged many people to make environmentally friendly choices.
Disabling Fashion Faux Pas
In the past, the general public often overlooked clothing choices and insensitive fashion trends. People wore what they liked without much consideration for the potential impact on others. However, today, there is a strong movement towards promoting respectful and inclusive fashion choices.
Workplace Harassment Ignored
In the past, inappropriate jokes on race, gender, weight, etc., were common at workplaces. These behaviors created toxic workplaces where individuals felt uncomfortable and undervalued. Today, such conduct is no longer tolerated. Companies have implemented strict policies to combat harassment.
Similar Posts
