What is a taboo?

Question

What is a taboo?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A taboo is an act that is considered socially unacceptable or morally disapproved, often seen as bad in itself. It is a powerful form of social control, as the consequences of violating taboos can range from social ostracism to legal sanctions. While taboos are often influenced by cultural or religious traditions, they can also arise in response to specific historical or political contexts. Unlike informal norms (A) or institutionalized norms (B), taboos are deeply ingrained in the collective beliefs and values of a society. While they may overlap with rules outlining expected behavior (D), taboos are typically more strongly enforced and associated with greater stigmatization in the event of violation.

What Is a Taboo