What is a taboo? Imagine that these are invisible rules that society has created to determine what can be done or said, and what is better left unsaid. Historically, this word came from the Polynesian islands and meant something that is better to avoid because it is considered “forbidden” or “sacred.” In other words, a taboo is something that is not discussed or done for various reasons: due to traditions, religion, or simply because it is customary in a certain culture.
For example, in some cultures, it is very undesirable to eat certain types of meat, while in others, it is not appropriate to talk about topics related to certain aspects of life, such as death or money. In everyday life, taboos can look like avoiding conversations about personal finances at lunch or the unacceptability of eating with hands in a restaurant.
So, taboos are rules that help us live together, even if we are not always aware of them. Nevertheless, they influence what we do and how we behave.