16 Traditions That Exist Solely Because “That’s How It’s Always Been”
Traditions that formerly served a function are now used to influence many parts of our everyday life. Because other generations did the same, we blindly adhere to these traditions. Rather than out of actual necessity, many practices continue because of social inertia.
Here are 16 customs that have persisted over the years, mostly because that is how we have always done them.
Wedding Veils
The bridal veil originated as protection against evil spirits and later symbolized modesty and purity. Today, most brides wear veils purely as a traditional accessory with little connection to these ancient beliefs.
Daylight Saving Time
This twice-yearly clock adjustment began during World War to conserve energy resources. Despite studies showing minimal energy savings and documented health impacts, we continue the ritual out of habit.
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Handshakes
This greeting began as a way to prove you weren’t carrying weapons. Though it briefly disappeared during the pandemic, it quickly returned despite its outdated purpose.
Diamond Engagement Rings
This now-standard custom began with a clever advertising push by the De Beers company in the last century. What started as a marketing tactic is now viewed as essential by many couples.
QWERTY Keyboards
The QWERTY layout was designed to slow typing and prevent jams in mechanical typewriters. Even though that problem no longer exists, we keep using it simply because it’s familiar.
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Birthday Candles
Blowing out candles comes from an ancient ritual honoring the moon goddess Artemis. While the meaning is lost, the tradition endures at every birthday party.
Pennies
Pennies cost more to produce than they’re worth and rarely serve a functional role in transactions. Yet they remain in circulation mostly due to inertia and lobbying efforts.
Separate Hot and Cold Taps
This odd setup dates back to concerns about hot water safety that are no longer relevant. Still, many buildings maintain this design even though it’s needlessly inconvenient.
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White Wedding Dresses
Queen Victoria made the white wedding dress fashionable, not religious doctrine. Brides continue the tradition unaware that it’s less than two centuries old.
Men’s Suit Buttons
The tradition of leaving the bottom button unfastened started with a king who couldn’t button his coat. That accidental fashion rule is still followed without question today.
Tipping
Tipping in the United States began as a way to underpay formerly enslaved workers. Now it’s a standard that fuels income disparity and inconsistent service across industries.
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Bachelor and Bachelorette Parties
These celebrations trace back to Spartan traditions of military feasting. Today’s versions are more about destination weekends and party buses than ancient rites of passage.
Black Formal Wear
Victorians favored black for formal occasions as a symbol of restraint and decorum. Modern fashion has evolved, yet we still treat black as the only appropriate formal option.
The Electoral College
This system was created when communication was slow and citizens had limited access to information. Even with modern technology, we continue electing presidents through this outdated mechanism.
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Cursive Handwriting
Once prized for speed and clarity, cursive handwriting is now taught more out of habit than utility. Most people type instead, yet cursive remains in many school curriculums.
Traditions Worth Questioning
Many customs continue simply because they always have, not because they serve a modern purpose. Questioning their value might help us keep the meaningful and leave the obsolete behind.
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