What is the fundamental definition of a taboo within a social group?

A taboo is defined as a social group's prohibition, ban, or avoidance of something, typically a behavior or utterance, stemming from the group's perception that the subject is excessively repulsive, offensive, sacred, or reserved for specific individuals. Such prohibitions are nearly universal across societies and can be enforced either explicitly through legal or religious systems, or implicitly through social norms and conventions.

What are the various reasons cited for the development of taboos in societies?

Taboos develop for several reasons, including protecting individuals, promoting more efficient resource use, and fostering group cohesion. When adopted by a specific group or tribe, taboos can help them stand out from others and maintain their unique identity, thereby strengthening a sense of belonging.

How has the meaning of 'taboo' evolved in the social sciences?

In the social sciences, the term 'taboo' has been broadened to encompass strong prohibitions related to any aspect of human activity or custom that is considered sacred or forbidden due to moral judgments, religious beliefs, or established cultural norms.

What is the etymological origin of the English word 'taboo'?

The English word 'taboo' is derived from the term *tapu* found in Oceanic languages, particularly Polynesian languages. This word signifies meanings such as 'prohibited' or 'forbidden'.

Which explorer is credited with introducing the term 'taboo' to the English language, and when?

The British explorer James Cook is credited with introducing the English use of the term 'taboo' in 1777. He encountered its usage by the Tongans during his visit to Tonga, noting its application to anything forbidden to be eaten or used.

What did the Tongan term 'tapu' mean when translated for James Cook?

When translated for James Cook, the Tongan term *tapu* was described as meaning 'consecrated, inviolable, forbidden, unclean or cursed'.

What is the linguistic root of 'tapu' and related terms in Oceanic languages?

The word *tapu* is generally considered a unitary word originating from Proto-Polynesian *tapu. It also exists in other Oceanic languages outside of Polynesia, such as Fijian *tabu* and Hiw (Vanuatu) *toq*. These words trace back to the Proto-Oceanic etymon *tabu, which meant 'forbidden, off limits; sacred, due to a sentiment of awe before spiritual forces'.

How is the word 'tapu' used in modern Tongan language?

In contemporary Tongan, the word *tapu* is used to mean 'sacred' or 'holy,' often in the context of restrictions or protections imposed by custom or law. For instance, the name of the main island, Tongatapu, translates to 'Sacred South'.

What did Sigmund Freud hypothesize were the two universal taboos forming the basis of civilization?

Sigmund Freud hypothesized that incest and patricide were the two universal taboos that formed the fundamental basis of civilization. He suggested that analyzing the language surrounding laws related to these acts could reveal societal moral judgments.

What are some common categories of human activities or subjects that are frequently subject to taboos?

Common areas where taboos are found include restrictions or ritual regulations concerning killing and hunting, sex and sexual relationships, reproduction, the dead and their graves, and food and dining practices. Specific food taboos often involve cannibalism and dietary laws like vegetarianism, *kashrut*, and *halal*.

What is the significance of 'fady' in Madagascar concerning taboos?

In Madagascar, *fady* refers to a strong code of taboos that are subject to change and are formed from new experiences. Each region, village, or tribe may have its own distinct set of *fady*.

What observation did Albert Schweitzer make about taboos in Gabon regarding twins?

Albert Schweitzer noted that in Gabon, the birth of twins was considered a misfortune, and twins were subjected to numerous rules that did not apply to other individuals, illustrating a specific taboo related to birth circumstances.

According to Joseph Campbell, what role do taboos play in religion and mythology?

Joseph Campbell suggested that taboos in religion and mythology serve as tests for an individual's ability to refrain from violating a given prohibition. Failure to pass such a test, by violating a taboo, would result in punishment or consequences for the actions taken.

How is the taboo of eating pomegranate seeds by Persephone interpreted in Greek mythology?

In Greek mythology, Persephone was tricked by Hades into eating a few pomegranate seeds, which represented food from the underworld. This act violated an eating taboo, obliging her to spend a portion of each year in the underworld, thus explaining the changing of seasons.

What was the nature of the 'looking taboo' in the Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice?

The 'looking taboo' in the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice involved a prohibition against Orpheus looking back at Eurydice as he led her out of the Underworld. His failure to adhere to this command, driven by eagerness, caused Eurydice to vanish back into the Underworld permanently.

Describe the 'speaking taboo' associated with Anchises in Greek mythology.

The speaking taboo related to Anchises involved a warning from Aphrodite not to reveal their union to anyone. Anchises broke this taboo by boasting about his encounter with the goddess, resulting in Zeus striking him with a thunderbolt, which left him lame.

What speaking taboo was imposed on Actaeon in Greek mythology, and what were its consequences?

After Actaeon accidentally witnessed the goddess Artemis bathing, she imposed a speaking taboo upon him. When Actaeon defied this by calling for his hunting dogs, Artemis transformed him into a stag, leading to him being torn apart by his own dogs.

What is the most famous eating taboo mentioned in the Abrahamic religions, and where is it found?

The most famous eating taboo in Abrahamic religions is found in the Judeo-Christian account of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, as described in Genesis. They were forbidden by God from eating from the Tree of the knowledge of good and evil.

What were the consequences for Adam and Eve after they violated the eating taboo in the Garden of Eden?

After Adam and Eve ate the forbidden fruit, they became aware of their nakedness and hid from God. As punishment, God condemned Eve to pain in childbirth and subordination to her husband, and Adam to labor for his food, ultimately leading to their expulsion from Eden to prevent them from eating from the Tree of Life.

How does the Islamic narrative of Adam and Eve differ regarding the eating taboo?

In Islam, Adam and his wife (named Hawwa' in Hadith) were placed in a paradisal garden and warned by Allah not to approach a specific tree. Iblis tricked them into eating from it, leading to their expulsion from the garden, with the Quran stating they would live, die, and be resurrected on Earth.

What is the Gnostic interpretation of the taboo in the Adam and Eve story?

In Gnostic tradition, the taboo of eating from the Tree of Knowledge is seen as a plot by the archons to keep Adam ignorant. The serpent, representing the divine world, is viewed positively for convincing Adam and Eve to eat the fruit, thereby enabling them to gain gnosis (knowledge).

Describe the 'looking taboo' in the story of Lot's wife from the Book of Genesis.

The 'looking taboo' is illustrated in the story of Lot's wife, who was commanded by angels not to look back as they fled the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. She disobeyed this prohibition by looking back and was consequently transformed into a pillar of salt.

How have communist and materialist theorists viewed the function of taboos?

Communist and materialist theorists have argued that taboos can serve as valuable sources for understanding the histories of societies, particularly when other historical records are scarce. Marvin Harris, for example, explained taboos as consequences of ecological and economic conditions.

What types of social behaviors are suggested to be taboo in contemporary Western multicultural societies?

Some argue that contemporary Western multicultural societies have developed taboos against various forms of 'tribalism,' such as ethnocentrism and nationalism, as well as against prejudices like racism, sexism, homophobia, extremism, and religious fanaticism.

What are some examples of new taboos emerging due to changing social customs?

New taboos have emerged due to changing social customs, including prohibitions against slavery, the extension of the pedophilia taboo to ephebophilia, and increasing social disapproval of unregulated discussions on politics and religion, sexual harassment, and sexual objectification. Bans on alcohol, tobacco, or certain pharmaceutical consumption, especially among pregnant women, are also examples.

How has the taboo surrounding incest evolved in modern times?

The taboo surrounding incest has seen differing trends, with some advocating for the normalization of consensual adult relationships regardless of kinship degrees, particularly in Europe. Conversely, other regions, like the United States, have seen an expansion of the degrees of prohibited contact.

How is the concept of taboo related to the proverb 'forbidden fruit is the sweetest'?

The proverb 'forbidden fruit is the sweetest' relates to the concept of taboo by highlighting how prohibitions can sometimes increase the allure or desirability of the forbidden item or action, associating taboos with enticing propositions.

Why might medical professionals refrain from public discussion of certain sensitive practices?

Medical professionals in ethically or socially sensitive areas, such as late termination of pregnancy, may avoid public discussion due to social stigma. This reluctance can stem from concerns that their comments might be taken out of context and used to influence policy decisions negatively, potentially leading to preventable harm like maternal death.

What is the meaning of *tapu* in the Tongan language, particularly in relation to place names?

In Tongan, *tapu* means 'sacred' or 'holy,' often implying restriction or protection by custom or law. An example is *Tongatapu*, the name of the main island, which translates to 'Sacred South'.

What is the Proto-Oceanic etymon for 'taboo' and what did it signify?

The Proto-Oceanic etymon for 'taboo' is reconstructed as *tabu. It signified 'forbidden, off limits; sacred, due to a sentiment of awe before spiritual forces'.

What is the connection between taboos and group identity?

Taboos can strengthen group identity by setting a group apart from others. Adhering to shared taboos reinforces a collective identity and a sense of belonging among members of a particular community or tribe.

What is the relationship between taboos and social norms or conventions?

Taboos can be enforced implicitly through social norms or conventions that are followed by a particular culture or organization. These unwritten rules guide behavior and contribute to the maintenance of social order, often reinforcing taboos without explicit legal or religious mandates.

How can taboos relate to ecological or medical backgrounds?

Some taboos have apparent ecological or medical origins, even if they are perceived as religious or spiritual. For instance, certain dietary restrictions might have developed to prevent the spread of disease or to manage resources sustainably.

What is the concept of 'taboo' in the context of Greek mythology concerning Persephone?

In Greek mythology, the story of Persephone illustrates an eating taboo. She was forbidden to eat food from the underworld, but she consumed pomegranate seeds, which bound her to spend part of the year with Hades, influencing the seasons.

What is the concept of 'taboo' in the context of Greek mythology concerning Orpheus?

The myth of Orpheus and Eurydice features a 'looking taboo,' where Orpheus was forbidden to look back at Eurydice as he led her from the Underworld. His violation of this taboo resulted in her permanent return to the realm of the dead.

What is the concept of 'taboo' in the context of Greek mythology concerning Anchises?

The myth of Anchises and Aphrodite involves a 'speaking taboo,' where Anchises was warned not to reveal his liaison with the goddess. His failure to keep this secret led to divine punishment, rendering him lame.

What is the concept of 'taboo' in the context of Greek mythology concerning Actaeon?

Actaeon faced a 'speaking taboo' imposed by Artemis after he accidentally saw her bathing. His transgression of this taboo by speaking resulted in his transformation into a stag and his death at the hands of his own hunting dogs.

What is the concept of 'taboo' in the context of the Adam and Eve story in Islam?

In the Islamic narrative of Adam and Eve, there is an eating taboo concerning a specific tree in the paradise garden. Allah warned Adam not to approach it, but Iblis deceived them into eating from it, leading to their expulsion.

What is the concept of 'taboo' in the context of the Lot's wife story in Abrahamic religions?

The story of Lot's wife exemplifies a 'looking taboo.' She was instructed not to look back as she fled Sodom, but her disobedience led to her transformation into a pillar of salt, demonstrating the consequences of breaking such prohibitions.

How might taboos be used to reveal historical information according to certain theorists?

Communist and materialist theorists suggest that taboos can be useful in uncovering the histories of societies, especially when other historical records are lacking. This is because taboos often reflect the ecological, economic, and social conditions of the time they emerged.

What is the argument regarding taboos against 'tribalisms' in modern Western societies?

It is argued that modern Western multicultural societies have developed taboos against 'tribalisms,' such as ethnocentrism and nationalism, and against prejudices like racism, sexism, and homophobia. These prohibitions reflect evolving social values and attempts to foster inclusivity.

What specific modern practices are becoming increasingly taboo?

Several modern practices are increasingly becoming taboo, including slavery, ephebophilia (which extends the taboo on pedophilia), and the unmoderated discussion of politics and religion. Additionally, sexual harassment and sexual objectification are also facing growing social prohibitions.

How does the proverb 'forbidden fruit is the sweetest' relate to the concept of taboo?

The proverb 'forbidden fruit is the sweetest' illustrates how the very act of prohibiting something can make it more desirable. This psychological effect highlights a complex aspect of taboos, where the restriction itself can enhance the allure of the forbidden.

What is the potential impact of social stigma on the discussion of certain medical practices?

Social stigma associated with certain medical practices, such as late termination of pregnancy, can lead to a taboo on public discussion among professionals. This silence might stem from a fear that their comments could be misinterpreted and used to enact ill-informed policies, potentially increasing risks like maternal death.

What is the origin of the word 'taboo' in Polynesian languages?

The word 'taboo' originates from the Polynesian word *tapu*, which means 'prohibited' or 'forbidden.' This term was adopted into English after being documented by Captain James Cook in 1777 during his travels in Tonga.

What does the Tongan word 'tapu' signify beyond just being forbidden?

In Tongan, *tapu* signifies more than just being forbidden; it also means 'sacred' or 'holy.' This implies a sense of reverence or special status that restricts access or use, as seen in place names like Tongatapu ('Sacred South').

How do taboos contribute to group cohesion and identity?

Taboos contribute to group cohesion by establishing shared rules and boundaries that differentiate a group from outsiders. Adherence to these prohibitions reinforces a collective identity and fosters a sense of belonging among members.

What is the role of *fady* in Madagascar?

*Fady* in Madagascar refers to a dynamic system of taboos that evolve with experience and vary by region, village, or tribe. These prohibitions play a significant role in the social and cultural life of the Malagasy people.

What is the significance of the number 13 in relation to taboos and superstitions?

The number 13 is often associated with taboos and superstitions, leading to phenomena like Friday the 13th, the concept of a 'thirteenth floor' being omitted in buildings, and the phobia known as triskaidekaphobia. These associations reflect a cultural tendency to view certain numbers or dates as unlucky or forbidden.

What is the meaning of 'damnatio memoriae' in the context of censorship or taboos?

'Damnatio memoriae' refers to the condemnation of memory, essentially an attempt to erase someone or something from history, often by destroying records or prohibiting mention. This practice can be seen as a form of extreme censorship or the creation of a historical taboo.

How does 'cancel culture' relate to the concept of taboo?

'Cancel culture' can be viewed as a modern manifestation of social taboo enforcement, where individuals or groups face public condemnation and ostracization for behaviors or expressed views deemed unacceptable by prevailing social norms. This often leads to a de facto taboo on associating with or platforming the 'canceled' individual.

Taboo Wiki: Unveiling the Forbidden: A Societal Exploration of Taboo

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Defining Taboo

Societal Prohibition

A taboo represents a social group's prohibition or avoidance of specific utterances or behaviors. This stems from the group's perception of these actions as excessively repulsive, sacred, or permissible only under restricted circumstances.^[1]^[2] Such prohibitions are nearly universal across human societies.^[1]

Enforcement and Origin

Taboos can be enforced explicitly through legal systems or religious doctrines, or implicitly via social norms and conventions within a culture or organization.^[1] While often intended to protect individuals, taboos can also serve other purposes, such as efficient resource management or, conversely, the suppression of specific community segments.^[3]

Group Cohesion and Identity

Adherence to taboos within a group reinforces social cohesion, helps maintain group identity against external influences, and fosters a sense of belonging.^[3] The term's meaning has broadened in social sciences to encompass strong prohibitions related to any human activity or custom deemed sacred or forbidden based on moral judgment, religious beliefs, or cultural norms.^[3]

Etymology: The Roots of "Taboo"

Polynesian Origins

The English term "taboo" originates from the word tapu found in Polynesian languages, notably Tongan and Māori, meaning "prohibited" or "forbidden." Hawaiian uses the related term kapu.^[4] The term entered English usage in 1777 through explorer James Cook's observations in Tonga, where taboo described anything forbidden for use or consumption.^[5]

Linguistic Lineage

Tapu is traced back to Proto-Polynesian *tapu and further to Proto-Oceanic *tabu, reconstructed with meanings like "forbidden, off limits; sacred, due to a sentiment of awe before spiritual forces."^[7]^[8]^[11] The Tongan usage of tapu also signifies "sacred" or "holy," as in Tongatapu ("Sacred South").

Illustrative Examples of Taboo

Greek Mythology

Greek myths feature various taboos, often related to actions with profound consequences:

Eating Taboo: Persephone's consumption of pomegranate seeds in the Underworld bound her to Hades for a portion of the year, illustrating the sacredness of food laws and the repercussions of their violation.^[19]
Looking Taboo: Orpheus's fatal glance back at Eurydice, breaking his promise to Hades, resulted in her permanent loss, highlighting the power of prohibitions on perception.^[17]
Speaking Taboo: Anchises' boast about his divine encounter and Actaeon's cry for his dogs, despite being forbidden to speak, led to divine punishment, demonstrating the severe consequences of breaking verbal restrictions.^[28]

Abrahamic Traditions

Key narratives in Abrahamic religions explore taboos, particularly concerning forbidden actions and their divine repercussions:

Adam and Eve: The prohibition against eating from the Tree of Knowledge in the Garden of Eden serves as a foundational eating taboo, with disobedience leading to humanity's expulsion and the concept of original sin.^[30]
Lot's Wife: The prohibition against looking back while fleeing Sodom resulted in Lot's wife being transformed into a pillar of salt, a stark example of a looking taboo.^[53]
Islamic Narrative: Similar to the Judeo-Christian account, the Quran describes Adam and Eve being warned not to approach a specific tree in paradise, with disobedience leading to their descent to Earth.^[39]

Cultural Variations

Taboos manifest diversely across cultures:

Madagascar: The concept of fady encompasses a dynamic code of taboos that vary by region and tribe, reflecting local experiences and beliefs.^[3]
Gabon: Albert Schweitzer noted taboos concerning twins, who were subject to specific rules due to perceived misfortune.^[16]
Dietary Laws: Practices like kashrut (Jewish dietary laws) and halal (Islamic dietary laws) represent significant food taboos rooted in religious observance.^[3]

The Function of Taboo

Sociological and Ecological Perspectives

Materialist theorists suggest taboos can illuminate societal histories where other records are scarce.^[54] Marvin Harris posited that taboos often arise from ecological and economic conditions, serving practical purposes.^[55] For instance, prohibitions on consuming certain animals might reflect their ecological importance or disease risks.

Group Identity and Social Order

Taboos contribute to group identity and social order by establishing boundaries and shared values. They delineate what is considered acceptable or unacceptable, reinforcing cultural norms and distinguishing one group from another.^[3]

Testing and Consequences

Joseph Campbell viewed taboos in mythology as tests of an individual's adherence to prohibitions, with violations leading to punishment or consequences.^[17]^[18] These prohibitions can extend beyond actions to include specific words or behaviors.

Taboos in the Modern Era

Evolving Social Norms

Contemporary Western societies grapple with evolving taboos related to tribalism (ethnocentrism, nationalism) and prejudices (racism, sexism, homophobia, extremism).^[56] Changing social customs introduce new taboos, such as prohibitions against slavery, sexual harassment, and certain forms of political or religious discourse.

Shifting Boundaries

The boundaries surrounding taboos like incest are debated, with some advocating for normalization of consensual adult relationships while others seek to expand prohibitions.^[58] While often negative, the concept of taboo can also be associated with allure, as in the proverb "forbidden fruit is the sweetest."^[62]

Medical and Ethical Considerations

In medicine, professionals in ethically sensitive areas, such as late-term abortion, may face social stigma and practice taboos, partly due to concerns about misinterpretation of their work leading to harmful policy decisions.^[63]^[64]

Taboos in Religious Contexts

Judaism and Islam

Religious traditions often codify specific taboos. Examples include:

Kashrut: Jewish dietary laws prohibit the consumption of certain foods, like pork and shellfish, and the mixing of meat and dairy.^[3]
Halal: Islamic dietary laws similarly define permissible (halal) and forbidden (haram) foods.

Christianity and Mythology

While Christian doctrine does not emphasize dietary taboos as strongly as Judaism or Islam, the concept of forbidden actions and divine punishment is central to its foundational narratives, such as the story of Adam and Eve.^[30]

Taboos Across Domains

Cultural and Mythological Contexts

Taboos permeate cultural practices and mythological narratives, often serving to delineate the sacred from the profane, test moral fortitude, or explain natural phenomena. From Greek myths detailing the consequences of breaking divine commands to the foundational taboos in Abrahamic religions, these prohibitions shape understanding and behavior.

Modern Digital Contexts

In the digital age, new forms of taboos emerge concerning online behavior, data privacy, and the regulation of information. Concepts like "cancel culture," "deplatforming," and the ethical considerations surrounding AI alignment touch upon modern interpretations of societal prohibitions.

Related Concepts

Cognitive and Social Links

Taboos are closely related to concepts like magical thinking, superstition, and social stigma. They often arise from a desire to impose order, control uncertainty, or maintain social boundaries. Understanding taboos involves exploring cognitive biases like apophenia (perceiving patterns in random data) and the post hoc ergo propter hoc fallacy (assuming causation from correlation).

Control and Regulation

The function of taboos often intersects with mechanisms of social control, censorship, and the enforcement of moral or religious codes. They represent a powerful, albeit often implicit, form of regulating behavior and maintaining societal structures.

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References

EncyclopÃ¦dia Britannica Online. "Taboo". EncyclopÃ¦dia Britannica Inc., 2012. Retrieved 21 Mar. 2012

"taboo". Merriam-Webster's Online Dictionary, 11th Edition.

Cook & King 1821, p. 462

Cook & King 1821, p. 348

3:3

3:4

3:5

3:6

3:7â8

3:9â13

3:16â19

3:22

Quran 20:118

Quran 20:119

Quran 20:115

Quran 2:208 -Sahih International

Quran 20:117

Quran 7:20â21

Quran 20:120

Quran 7:22â24

Quran 20:123

19:26

Joanna Grossman, Should the law be kinder to kissin' cousins?

Ladygina-Kots, Nadezhda Nikolaevna. "Infant Ape and Human Child: (Instincts, Emotions, Play, Habits)." Journal of Russian & East European Psychology 38.1 (2000): 5â78.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Taboo Wikipedia page

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This is not professional advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional sociological, anthropological, or cultural consultation. Always refer to academic sources and consult with qualified professionals for specific insights into societal norms and practices.

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Taboo Unveiled

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Defining Taboo 🚫

⚖️ Societal Prohibition

📜 Enforcement and Origin

🤝 Group Cohesion and Identity

Etymology: The Roots of "Taboo" 🗣️

🌍 Polynesian Origins

🔗 Linguistic Lineage

Illustrative Examples of Taboo 📜

🏛️ Greek Mythology

📖 Abrahamic Traditions

🌏 Cultural Variations

The Function of Taboo ⚙️

💡 Sociological and Ecological Perspectives

🛡️ Group Identity and Social Order

❓ Testing and Consequences

Taboos in the Modern Era 📱

⚖️ Evolving Social Norms

↔️ Shifting Boundaries

🩺 Medical and Ethical Considerations

Taboos in Religious Contexts 🙏

✡️ Judaism and Islam

✝️ Christianity and Mythology

Taboos Across Domains 🌐

🎭 Cultural and Mythological Contexts

💻 Modern Digital Contexts

Related Concepts 🔗

🤔 Cognitive and Social Links

🔒 Control and Regulation

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Defining Taboo

Societal Prohibition

Enforcement and Origin

Group Cohesion and Identity

Etymology: The Roots of "Taboo"

Polynesian Origins

Linguistic Lineage

Illustrative Examples of Taboo

Greek Mythology

Abrahamic Traditions

Cultural Variations

The Function of Taboo

Sociological and Ecological Perspectives

Group Identity and Social Order

Testing and Consequences

Taboos in the Modern Era

Evolving Social Norms

Shifting Boundaries

Medical and Ethical Considerations

Taboos in Religious Contexts

Judaism and Islam

Christianity and Mythology

Taboos Across Domains

Cultural and Mythological Contexts

Modern Digital Contexts

Related Concepts

Cognitive and Social Links

Control and Regulation

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice