Education: Taboo Words

In words, as in bathing suits and men's manners toward women, taboos change with the times. Fifty years ago the word leg was not used in polite mixed company. Today, at respectable dinner tables, words are casually uttered that would make Victorians blush, blanch or burst. Last week a college professor made a scientific report on the use of words that are still "socially questionable" in some circles.*

To find out how much basis there is for "the current impression that the present generation of youth has no inhibitions in relation to word use as well as otherwise," Professor Edwin R. Hunter...

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!