The 1960s were a time of change, rebellion, and experimentation, but some of the behaviors we casually accepted back then wouldn’t last a minute under today’s scrutiny. From unchecked sexism to questionable safety standards, many of these actions would have modern society clutching its pearls—or calling out offenders online. Here’s a look at some bygone behaviors that would get you canceled in today’s world.
1. There Were No Seatbelts in Cars
In the 60s, safety standards were practically non-existent. Cars rarely came with seatbelts, and even if they did, many people didn’t bother using them. Kids freely roamed the backseat or even rode in the front on someone’s lap. Fast forward to today, where not wearing a seatbelt is not only illegal but could also spark major outrage for endangering lives. Safety is non-negotiable now, and rightfully so.
2. Smoking Was Allowed Everywhere
Lighting up was a casual, almost universal activity in the 60s. Whether in offices, restaurants, airplanes, or even hospitals, people smoked wherever they pleased. Non-smokers had no choice but to inhale secondhand smoke, and complaints were rare. Today, public smoking bans are widespread, and vaping in the wrong place can even provoke backlash. Smoking culture has become a prime example of how much societal norms have shifted.
3. Kids Were Left to Roam Free
In the 60s, “parenting” often meant shooing kids outside and telling them to be home by dinnertime. It was normal for kids as young as six or seven to explore neighborhoods unsupervised, bike miles away from home, and play with minimal adult intervention. Nowadays, free-range parenting can spark debates about safety and neglect, with some parents even facing legal consequences for giving their kids too much freedom.
4. Racist and Sexist Advertising Was the Norm
Flip through any 1960s magazine, and you’ll find ads dripping with casual racism and sexism. Women were depicted as submissive housewives, while racial minorities were often portrayed in degrading stereotypes. These depictions went largely unchallenged at the time, but today, such campaigns would ignite public outrage, boycotts, and calls for accountability.
5. Doctors Endorsed Cigarettes
In one of the most shocking behaviors of the era, doctors not only smoked but also appeared in cigarette ads endorsing specific brands. Imagine your physician recommending a “smoother menthol” today—it’s unthinkable. This blatant contradiction to medical ethics shows just how much we’ve learned (and unlearned) since then.
6. Adults Flirted with Teenagers
It wasn’t uncommon in the 60s for older men to openly flirt with teenage girls—and worse, society often turned a blind eye. Famous rock stars dating minors were not just accepted but glamorized. Today, this behavior would be deemed predatory and would lead to widespread condemnation and likely legal action.
7. Lead Paint Was Everywhere
In the 60s, lead-based paint wasn’t just common—it was everywhere, from children’s toys to household walls. The devastating health effects of lead exposure weren’t widely understood, and safety regulations were nearly nonexistent. Today, lead poisoning is a major health concern, and its use is banned in most countries.
8. Hitchhiking Was Normal
Sticking your thumb out on the side of the road for a ride was considered a perfectly valid mode of transportation in the 60s. People trusted strangers with their lives, often hopping into unmarked cars without a second thought. Today, the idea of hitchhiking is viewed as dangerous and reckless, thanks to our heightened awareness of personal safety.
9. Dangerous “Toys” Like Lawn Darts
Lawn darts, a popular pastime in the 60s, were essentially sharp projectiles marketed as toys. They caused numerous injuries and even fatalities before being banned. These days, even harmless toys come with extensive safety warnings, making lawn darts a chilling reminder of just how lax regulations used to be.
10. Childproofing Wasn’t a Thing
Homes in the 60s were minefields of danger for kids. Sharp table edges, exposed electrical sockets, and choking hazards were all part of the landscape. Parents simply assumed kids would figure it out—or not. Today, childproofing is an entire industry, with parents going to great lengths to ensure their homes are as safe as possible.
11. Diet Pills Were Overprescribed
Weight-loss culture in the 60s was extreme, with diet pills handed out freely by doctors. These pills often contained amphetamines, leading to addiction and severe health issues. Today, such prescriptions would face massive scrutiny, and promoting unhealthy body standards has become a topic of much-needed societal reflection.
12. Racist Stereotypes in Entertainment
TV shows, movies, and commercials in the 60s often perpetuated harmful racial stereotypes that reinforced systemic discrimination. These portrayals went largely unchallenged back then but would now face intense backlash and calls for accountability, as representation has become a vital conversation in media.
13. Public Shaming Was Considered Funny
Back in the day, people thought it was perfectly fine to make someone the punchline of a joke—even if it embarrassed them. Whether it was teasing someone for their weight, their job, or even their relationships, nobody seemed to think twice. These days, we know better (or at least try to). Making fun of someone’s struggles or insecurities isn’t just mean—it’s downright unacceptable.
14. Teachers Used Corporal Punishment
Spanking, rulers, or even paddles—corporal punishment was a standard disciplinary practice in schools. Many viewed it as an acceptable way to maintain order. Today, physical punishment in schools is widely outlawed and condemned as abusive, with an emphasis on positive discipline methods.
15. Sexual Harassment Was Brushed Off
In the workplace and beyond, catcalling and inappropriate comments were often dismissed as harmless or even flattering. Women were expected to smile and tolerate this behavior. Today, these actions would be called out as harassment, leading to professional consequences and public outrage.
This content was created by a real person with the assistance of AI.
