Human Development
Taboo
Description:
This may refer to the nature of anything that is forbidden; but that which is taboo is usually prohibited because it is in some way sacred, mysterious or extraordinary. This may be particularly the case with anything connected with death. Rituals and ceremonies have grown up in many cultures and religions around what is taboo, to avoid danger associated with mana, or with positive holiness working as a power. Although breaking a taboo is thought of as morally evil, it is due to the fault of an individual and not as serious an offence as an antisocial action which involves an insult to the ancestors of the group, when guilt is considered collective and has to be expiated collectively.Broader:
Rites