Embracing change is essential as times continually evolve. While the 70s epitomized free-spiritedness and boundary-pushing, returning to that era may reveal aspects that no longer align with our contemporary values. Taking a ride through time, we uncover 19 elements from the past that today’s progressive society would likely deem outdated and in need of elimination.
Disco
Disco, once synonymous with all-out glam in the 70s, has lost its appeal to contemporary teenagers. The skin-tight spandex and revealing shirts that were once fashionable are now considered absurd. Reflecting on the disco era, with its synchronized dance moves and gyrations on rainbow-lit dance floors beneath mirror balls, it’s evident that such venues would hold little appeal for today’s youth. Moreover, the cultural appropriation and ethnic stereotyping often associated with the disco scene would be widely condemned in today’s society.
Sexist Advertisements
Advertisements during the 70s perpetuated the notion that women were submissive, confined to the home, and preoccupied with their looks. Women were portrayed as solely engaged in household chores, child-rearing, cooking, or beautification. Such advertising tactics would be widely rejected in today’s society. As we strive for gender equality and embrace diverse representation, these ads are a powerful reminder of women’s progress and the continued importance of pushing for further advancements.
Asbestos
In the past, asbestos was commonly used as a home insulation material due to its fire-resistant qualities. However, we now understand the severe health risks of inhaling asbestos fibers, particularly their link to lung-related illnesses and cancer. Consequently, specific legal requirements for renovating or removing buildings containing asbestos insulation have been established. Like lead-based paint, using asbestos in modern construction would be widely unacceptable, reflecting our increased knowledge and prioritization of health and safety.
Wall-to-wall Carpeting
In the past, wall-to-wall carpeting in every room was considered a symbol of luxurious living, even extending to the bathroom and kitchen. While carpets offer a soft and cozy feel, particularly in colder climates, they present impracticalities and cleaning challenges. Concerns about sanitation and the aftermath of accidents, such as toilet leaks or pet accidents, make any modern homeowner cringe. Fortunately, contemporary design standards prioritize more practical and sleek options like hardwood or tile flooring, reflecting a shift towards easy maintenance and hygiene.
Gender-Specific Toys
During the 70s, toy advertisements often reinforced gender stereotypes, depicting boys playing with action figures and girls with dolls and domestic playsets. This messaging perpetuated the notion that girls were destined for homemaking. At the same time, boys were expected to embody toughness and emotional detachment. However, the contemporary toy market has made strides in challenging these restrictive norms, promoting inclusivity, and allowing children to pursue playthings based on personal preferences. The modern message is clear: children can explore their interests and be whatever they aspire to be.
CFCs
Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) enjoyed widespread use, celebrated for their stability, affordability, and non-toxic properties. Commonly found in aerosols, refrigerants, and propellants, they posed no direct harm to humans. However, they posed a grave threat to our atmosphere, particularly the ozone layer responsible for shielding us from the sun’s harmful UV rays. The Montreal Protocol was crucial in banning their use and initiating their phase-out, allowing the ozone layer to recover gradually. The idea of reinstating CFCs lacks any reasonable argument, given the irrefutable evidence of their destructive impact.
Free-Roaming Kids
In the 70s, it was common for parents to encourage their children to play outside and return home before dark, granting them the freedom to independently explore their neighborhoods, walk to school, or bike around town with little supervision. However, parenting styles have significantly transformed in recent years, driven by heightened safety concerns, stricter laws, and changing societal expectations. Allowing children to roam unsupervised in today’s world can lead to visits from Child Protective Services. Nevertheless, there is a nostalgic longing for the freedom and exploration that characterized those bygone times.
Littering
In the past, there was a lax attitude towards littering, where roads and sidewalks were treated as convenient spots to discard wrappers, cigarette butts, and even larger household items. Predictably, this “out of sight, out of mind” approach has had lasting effects on future generations and the environment. There is growing concern about the harm caused to wildlife and the degradation of natural landscapes, leading people to be more conscious of recycling and responsibly disposing of trash. The shift towards responsible waste management reflects an increased awareness of the need to protect our ecosystems.
Platform Shoes
In terms of fashion, each decade has its share of crimes, but the 70s took it to another level—literally. Footwear during that time reached astonishing heights, with platforms and heels exceeding 5 inches. This emphasis on fashion over function posed a significant risk of ankle twists and falls. In our present-day mindset, comfort and foot health take precedence, rendering teetering on mini stilts utterly absurd.
Blatant Homophobia
In the 70s, the representation of homosexual individuals in television and films was either wholly absent or marred by negative stereotypes. Characters were often depicted as overly flamboyant, unstable, or reduced to shallow comedic roles. In today’s society, such empty and unjust portrayals would face swift criticism and backlash, and rightfully so. While progress is ongoing, there has been a notable shift towards presenting gay characters with dignity, respect, and authenticity, acknowledging the importance of fair and meaningful representation.
Lighting up Everywhere
Lighting up was once commonplace in restaurants, planes, offices, and even in the presence of children. However, our heightened understanding of the hazards of second-hand smoke renders such widespread practices astonishing. With the recognition of its health risks, smoking in public spaces has become socially unacceptable, leading to a notable decline in its acceptance. This shift undoubtedly contributes to the overall well-being of society.
TV Dinners
The 1970s witnessed the rise of pre-packaged meals, individually served in segmented aluminum trays, epitomizing convenience and innovation. These instant dinners allowed for easy consumption while watching television. However, in today’s health-conscious society, the notion of consuming heavily processed meals devoid of fresh ingredients fails to impress. Apart from the concerns surrounding plastic waste, these meals typically offered little nutritional value beyond high salt, fat, and preservatives. Opting for fresh vegetables at the dinner table remains preferable for many of us.
Dangerous Toys
In the 70s, safety standards and legal requirements for toys had yet to reach the stringent measures today. This era produced highly dangerous playthings like lawn darts, Clackers, and Creepy Crawlers. Present-day companies would struggle to market such items as children’s toys legally, and rightfully so. While it may seem less exciting, prioritizing child safety over potentially harmful entertainment is paramount.
Over-Use Of Plastic
Plastic dominated every aspect of daily life, from packaging and bags to toys. The era embraced a “throwaway living” mentality, reveling in the convenience of plastic without considering its long-term sustainability or environmental consequences. Today, our understanding of the detrimental effects of this disregard has grown, evidenced by massive landfills, polluted oceans, and the prevalence of microplastics. The excessive use of plastic seen during that time would be widely deemed unacceptable in our present-day society.
Lead-based Paint
Unbelievably, lead-based paint was a standard decorative tool in 1970s households. While it added vibrant colors to homes, it posed significant health risks, particularly for children. The awareness of its toxicity led to the banning lead-based paints, firmly relegating them to the past. Trying to reintroduce such paints today would be met with unanimous disagreement, as the potential danger of lead poisoning far outweighs any aesthetic appeal, no matter how enticing the shade may be!
On-Screen Racism
While some audience segments were fond of them, numerous TV shows from the 70s reflected the regressive attitudes of that era. Blatant racism was frequently incorporated, with non-white characters subjected to derogatory jokes, demeaning portrayals, and harmful stereotypes. Fortunately, in the present day, we recognize the significance of representation and the damage that such bigoted shows can inflict. Consequently, re-airing these outdated programs raises valid concerns and prompts a reconsideration of their appropriateness.
Wastefulness
Household waste was typically disposed of without considering recycling or reuse in the 1970s. The convenience-oriented mindset of that era meant that separating and sorting waste for environmental benefit was a foreign concept. However, in today’s environmentally conscious society, a blatant disregard for recycling and conservation is frowned upon and deemed irresponsible and detrimental. The shift towards valuing recycling practices reflects a heightened awareness of the need to protect and preserve our planet.
Poor Vehicle Safety
In the 70s, seatbelts were viewed more as optional than mandatory, and the concept of age-appropriate child seats was nearly nonexistent. However, traveling without securely fastened seatbelts and appropriate child restraints fills us with apprehension. While freedom is valued, the absence of proper vehicular safety measures during that time was undeniably perilous.
Evolving Perspectives and the Power of Progress
Reflecting on the trends and norms of the 70s, it becomes evident that significant changes have occurred in our values and societal expectations. Many aspects from that era, including gender stereotypes, environmental practices, and discriminatory portrayals, would face severe backlash and condemnation today. As we strive for progress, inclusivity, and sustainability, these outdated elements remind us of the importance of continuous growth and learning from our past to shape a more equitable and conscientious future.
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