16 Activities From The ’70s That Would Land You In Trouble Today
The 1970s was a decade that embraced freedom and self-expression in ways that seem foreign today.
It was an era marked by activities that were deemed acceptable back then but would certainly raise eyebrows in our current society.
As we journey through these 16 activities, it’s fascinating to see how societal norms have shifted, making some of these once popular pastimes controversial or even illegal today.
1. Hitchhiking
In the 1970s, hitchhiking was not just a mode of transportation but a symbol of adventure and freedom.
Travelers would often rely on the kindness of strangers to get from one place to another. This practice was seen as a social norm, reflecting a more trusting society.
However, today, hitchhiking is viewed as risky and potentially dangerous, both for the hitchhiker and the driver.
Personal safety concerns and crime rates have drastically altered perceptions, making this once commonplace activity largely obsolete and frowned upon by authorities.
2. Smoking in Public Places
During the ’70s, smoking in public spaces was not only widespread but socially acceptable. Restaurants, airplanes, and even hospitals allowed smoking, with non-smokers having little recourse.
The pervasive tobacco advertising further normalized this habit across various demographics. Today, due to health awareness and regulations, smoking in public places is heavily restricted.
The introduction of smoking bans has made such behavior outdated and often illegal, reflecting significant changes in public health policies and societal attitudes toward smoking.
3. Riding Without Seat Belts
The 1970s saw families frequently traveling without the safety of seat belts, a practice that was common and largely unregulated.
Seat belts were often an optional feature, and few people were aware of or concerned about the risks involved.
Presently, wearing seat belts is mandatory and strictly enforced by law, recognized as a crucial safety measure.
The shift toward safety-conscious driving reflects a broader awareness and commitment to reducing traffic fatalities and injuries, showcasing how public safety standards have evolved over the decades.
4. Drinking and Driving
In the ’70s, driving after a few drinks was often shrugged off as part of the social norm.
The lack of stringent laws and social awareness around drunk driving meant many engaged in this dangerous activity without much thought.
Fast forward to today, and drinking and driving are serious offenses with zero tolerance in many areas.
Law enforcement campaigns and stricter legislation highlight society’s commitment to road safety, making this once casual behavior unacceptable and heavily penalized.
5. No Helmets on Bikes
Cycling in the 1970s often meant wind in your hair and no helmet on your head. Helmets were neither fashionable nor deemed necessary.
Riding freely without protective gear was part of the carefree spirit of that era. Nowadays, helmets are considered essential for safety, with laws mandating their use in many places.
The change underscores a significant shift toward prioritizing safety over style, as awareness of head injuries and their prevention has become a key concern for cyclists of all ages.
6. Unsupervised Outdoor Play
The ’70s were a time when children played outdoors for hours without supervision, a common practice that fostered independence and creativity.
Parents trusted their communities to watch over their kids, and the concept of ‘stranger danger’ was less pervasive.
Today, unsupervised play is often viewed as neglectful, with parents preferring structured, supervised activities.
Concerns about safety have grown, leading to a more cautious approach to children’s outdoor activities and reflecting a significant cultural shift in parenting styles.
7. Casual Attitude Toward Drugs
The 1970s saw a laid-back attitude towards recreational drug use, with marijuana and other substances being part of the counterculture movement.
Experimentation was common, and the legal repercussions were not as severe as they are today.
In the modern era, increased awareness of drug addiction and its consequences has led to stricter laws and a more conservative societal view.
This shift from casual acceptance to cautious regulation highlights the evolving perspectives on substance use and the importance of public health education.
8. Lax Parenting Styles
Parenting in the ’70s was characterized by a ‘hands-off’ approach, with children given the freedom to learn from their own mistakes.
Rules were flexible, and the concept of helicopter parenting was unheard of. Fast forward to today, and parenting styles have become more structured and vigilant, with an emphasis on guidance and supervision.
This transformation reflects broader cultural changes and a growing emphasis on child development and safety, contrasting sharply with the relaxed parenting norms of previous decades.
9. Minimal Environmental Concerns
Environmental awareness in the 1970s was minimal, with little consideration given to pollution or conservation.
Industries operated with few regulations, and littering was rampant, reflecting a society less conscious of its ecological footprint.
In contrast, today’s world is focused on sustainability and environmental preservation, driven by urgent concerns about climate change and resource depletion.
The shift towards eco-friendly practices and policies illustrates a profound change in priorities, showing how environmental consciousness has become integral to modern living.
10. Ignoring Food Safety
In the 1970s, food safety standards were not as stringent as they are today, with many people unaware of the risks associated with improper food handling.
The concept of expiration dates was relatively new, and practices like leaving food unrefrigerated were common.
Today, heightened awareness and stringent regulations ensure food safety is a top priority, reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses.
This evolution in standards reflects a society that values health and safety, emphasizing the importance of proper food handling practices.
11. Political Incorrectness in Comedy
Comedy in the 1970s often pushed boundaries with humor that would be deemed politically incorrect today. Jokes about race, gender, and sexuality were common, reflecting the era’s social climate.
In modern times, comedians face greater scrutiny, and there’s a clear expectation to respect diversity and inclusivity.
This shift highlights a growing awareness of social issues and a commitment to respectful dialogue, showcasing how societal views on comedy and its impact have evolved significantly over the years.
12. Animal Performance Shows
Animal performance shows were a beloved form of entertainment in the 1970s, captivating audiences with exotic creatures performing tricks.
These shows were celebrated without much regard for the animals’ welfare. Today, there’s a strong movement against using animals for entertainment, fueled by concerns about cruelty and exploitation.
Many jurisdictions have banned such practices, reflecting a more humane approach to animal rights. This change underscores a growing empathy towards animals and a commitment to ethical treatment.
13. Unfiltered Advertising
Advertising in the 1970s often featured unsubstantiated health claims and questionable practices, with little regulation to hold brands accountable.
This era of unchecked marketing creativity contributed to consumer misconceptions.
In contrast, today’s advertising is subject to strict regulations to ensure honesty and transparency, influenced by consumer rights movements.
This evolution in advertising standards reflects a more informed society, emphasizing the importance of truth in marketing and protecting consumers from misleading information.
14. Roller Disco Craze
The roller disco craze of the 1970s was a vibrant social phenomenon combining roller skating with disco music.
While it was a fun and energetic pastime, safety measures were often overlooked, leading to frequent injuries.
Today, public skating events are regulated to ensure safety, with protective gear being standard.
This transition highlights a broader focus on recreational safety and reflects a cultural shift towards risk-awareness, ensuring that fun activities are also safe.
15. Permissive Dress Codes at Work
Workplace fashion in the 1970s was often relaxed, with dress codes that allowed for individual expression through bold styles.
This permissive attitude reflected a more laid-back professional culture. In contrast, many modern workplaces have adopted more formal or business-casual dress codes, emphasizing professionalism and uniformity.
This shift mirrors changes in corporate culture, where appearance is often linked to professionalism and company image, showcasing a balance between individuality and workplace expectations.
16. Lack of Child Car Seats
In the 1970s, child car seats were not a standard requirement, and many families traveled without them, unaware of the risks.
The absence of regulations meant children were often unsecured during car rides.
Today, stringent laws mandate the use of child car seats, reflecting a heightened awareness of safety and the importance of protecting young passengers.
This transformation in safety standards highlights society’s commitment to child welfare and the evolution of automotive safety technologies.