Though traditions are central to every culture, not all of them are practical or make sense in this age and era. As the world changes, some US traditions are not as practical or useful as they once were.
Whether it’s about convenience, changing values, or new technology, certain traditions no longer make sense. Here are some traditions that could use some updating in this modern era.
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Using Daylight Saving Time
Daylight Saving Time was created to help make better use of sunlight. But these days, it is not very useful. The vast majority of people sit inside well-lit buildings and use technology that run all day long.
Twice a year clock changes simply mess with sleep patterns and make things confusing. Some argue that we should get rid of this old practice and stick to one time all year-round.
Over-the-Top High School Proms
Proms were once simple dances for the end of the school year. Now they’re expensive parties with fancy dresses, limos and elaborate venues.
The pressure to buy so much weighs down on families and students. A lot of people think prom has lost its original purpose of enjoyment and celebration. Not to mention all the social pressure that kids go through in making this one event the best night of their lives.
Pledging Allegiance in Schools
The daily recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance in US classrooms is traditional. Although designed to promote patriotism, some find it out of date in the contemporary classroom.
To force kids to repeat it every day might not be as meaningful as teaching children their country’s values & patriotism through discussion.
Having Huge Weddings
Weddings used to be about celebrating love with family and friends. But now they’re big expensive productions.
Couples go in to serious debt and the pressure to make it the best experience for guests and social media takes all the fun out of it. Many have begun to value smaller, more personal ceremonies rather than the show-off it has become.
Black Friday Shopping
Black Friday was once the biggest day of the year for shopping, with huge discounts and long lines outside shops.
Now you can buy anything from your house. The chaos and hassle of in-person Black Friday sales is no longer worth the inconvenience when you can shop on the internet. Who really wants to circle the lot for an hour just to find a parking spot?
The Presidential Turkey Pardon
The President pardons a turkey every Thanksgiving. This is a symbolic gesture and is meant to be light-hearted.
But some see it as a strange and unnecessary ritual when there are so many serious issues facing the country. Many think it’s not really the best use of the President’s time. The whole thing feels a bit silly in the current environment.
Keeping Pennies in Circulation
Pennies are more costly to manufacture than they are worth; most of us hardly ever use them. They usually just sit in jars and get discarded.
Most countries have already phased out their smallest coins, rounding up to the nickel or dime nearest them. We can do the same.
Tipping Culture
Tipping is part of US culture but for both the customer and the employee, it’s frequently confusing and frustrating. Tipping is mandatory rather than voluntary in the United States.
In many countries, service fees are included in the bill. It also puts the burden of fair pay on the customer rather than the employer, which many say is unjust.
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