About Taboos

Taboo - (Polynesian) to prohibit something from use, approach, or mention because of its sacred and inviolate nature.

Characteristics

Automatic Invocation - An effective gatekeeper of the mind does not call attention to itself. It actuates a psychological mechanism called a taboo.

Recognition - Word taboos are easily recognized by the aversion or evasion response they evoke when used.

An element of behavior that is transferred from one culture to another is likely to suffer a sea change. So it has been with taboo. Pacific islanders apparently have no hesitancy in explicitly giving taboo as a reason for stopping a discussion. By contrast, Westerners, with their cherished tradition of free speech and open discussion, would be embarrassed to say (for instance), "We will not discuss population because it is under a taboo." Instead, they change the subject.

Value - An effective taboo is worth more than the most skillful argument.

The function of language is twofold: to facilitate communication, understanding, and thought, or to prevent it. When pejoratives are used (particularly as modifiers), it's best to assume that someone is attempting to control or limit your thought and experience or, at the very least, your speech and response. Some good examples will be given later.

Hardin's Law - It takes five years for a willing person's mind to change. Have patience with yourself and others when treading in an area protected by a taboo.