The Mad Men Era: A Look at Surprising Differences and Familiar Continuities

The Mad Men era of the 1960s is often cited as a time of stark contrasts and societal shifts. From the numerous Mad Men episodes and retrospective pieces, it is clear that this decade was not without its peculiarities and societal norms that appear startlingly different from today's standards. This article will explore some of these notably different behaviors and attitudes, as well as highlight the continuities that still resonate today.

Differences in Norms and Behaviors

Pregnant Women Smoking and Drinking: A significant departure from today's standards is the widespread acceptance and practice of pregnant women drinking and smoking. In Mad Men, Betty Draper's struggles with her smoking habit were not only normal but also met with curiosity from her peers. Today, such behaviors are met with immediate professional intervention and public health campaigns. Smoking in Public: Another striking aspect of the Mad Men era is the rampant smoking in public spaces, with people lighting up right in front of colleagues, neighbors, and even children without hesitation. Today, smoke-free zones are standard, and the dangers of secondhand smoke are well-publicized. This shift highlights how public health concerns have gained prominence. Parent-Child Interactions: The way parents interacted with their children in the 1960s is another area of stark contrast. In the Mad Men world, parents often displayed a dismissive attitude towards their children's emotions, particularly when they were misbehaving. This approach contrasts sharply with today's emphasis on open communication and addressing underlying issues in children's behavior. Public Littering: The attitude towards public spaces in the Mad Men era was also remarkably different. For instance, Betty Draper simply dropping litter on the ground and leaving after a picnic is a practice that would be met with immediate fines and social censure today. The evolving consciousness towards environmental conservation is a clear shift from the carefree attitude of the past.

Continuities and Modern Reflections

Despite the many differences, some aspects of the Mad Men era continue to resonate. For example, the cultural relevance of workplace feuds and high-Stakes business deals remains a part of the modern business world. Similarly, the portrayal of women in the workforce—though limited by contemporary standards—provoked thought on gender roles and career ambitions.

Another continuity is the human nature and complexity portrayed in the series. The characters' struggles with alcoholism, depression, and professional and personal constraints are just as relatable today as they were then. The psychological depth and realistic portrayal of these issues have enduring appeal across generations of viewers.

Conclusion

The Mad Men era offers a fascinating window into a bygone period, filled with surprising differences and startling continuities. From the unsanctioned smoking and reckless littering to the subconscious environmental awareness and evolving parental roles, the decade's attitudes and behaviors were as complex and nuanced as those of today. Understanding these differences and continuities not only provides a richer sense of history but also serves as a reminder of how society has evolved—and sometimes, regressed—since those times.