Taboo Television Show: A Brutal Look at Cultural Practices
The National Geographic documentary series “Taboo” delves into unusual and often shocking cultural practices around the world. While initially promising a placid exploration of cultural oddities, the show quickly descends into graphic displays of animal cruelty and ritualistic practices that can be deeply disturbing for viewers. The senseless barbarity and butchery on display are often overwhelming and shocking, showcasing a stark contrast between modern Western sensibilities and the more primal traditions of some cultures.
The show’s presenters attempt to frame these practices with a sense of cultural relativism, emphasizing the importance of understanding and preserving diverse cultures. They argue that judging practices we don’t understand is inappropriate and stress the need to ensure these traditions aren’t lost. However, the extreme nature of some rituals presented in the show raises questions about the value of preserving practices that seem rooted in destructive beliefs and traditions. The line between cultural preservation and the perpetuation of harmful practices becomes blurred.
One particularly disturbing example features a tribe in Africa where a woman, claiming to be a spirit vessel, presides over animal sacrifices. Live animals, including a calf, have their throats slit, left to writhe in their own blood while people dance around them. The woman offers simplistic pronouncements of “everything is going to be okay” to those seeking help, leaving viewers to question the efficacy and ethical implications of such rituals.
The show’s “in your face” filming style, reminiscent of David Attenborough nature documentaries, vividly captures the brutality of these practices. While the production quality is undeniably high, and the subject matter undeniably interesting, the graphic content is not for the faint of heart. Animal lovers, in particular, are advised to avoid certain episodes, although the lack of advance warnings makes this difficult. The show’s unflinching depiction of death and suffering can leave a lasting impact, making it advisable to avoid watching right before bed.
The series ultimately leaves viewers grappling with complex questions about cultural relativism, the value of tradition, and the limits of tolerance. While offering a glimpse into rarely seen cultural practices, the show’s graphic content and disturbing themes make it a challenging watch for many. The focus on preserving traditions clashes with the stark reality of harmful practices, leaving viewers to ponder the ethical dilemmas presented. Perhaps, instead of prioritizing the preservation of such traditions, a focus on education, science, and improved healthcare might better serve these communities.
