11 Common Opinions That Were Totally Normal 30 Years Ago
This list shows opinions from 30 years ago that people thought were normal but seem odd today.
- Daisy Montero
- 2 min read
A lot has changed since the 1990s. Many ideas that seemed normal then would not make sense now. This list looks at some of those old opinions and how people think differently today.
1. Skepticism About Mobile Phones
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In the early ’90s, mobile phones were seen as unnecessary luxuries. Many believed they were just a passing trend, not foreseeing their eventual ubiquity and importance in daily life.
2. Computers Are Just for Nerds
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Computers were often associated with niche groups and not considered essential. The idea that every household would own one seemed far-fetched to many.
3. Streaming Will Never Replace Physical Media
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The notion that people would prefer digital streaming over owning physical copies of movies or music was met with disbelief. Collectors and enthusiasts couldn’t imagine a world without tangible media.
4. Diversity in the Workplace Isn’t a Priority
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Workplace diversity was not a major focus for many companies. The benefits of inclusive environments were not widely recognized or prioritized.
5. Mental Health Shouldn’t Be Discussed Openly
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Mental health issues were often stigmatized, and discussing them openly was discouraged. Seeking therapy or counseling was sometimes viewed as a sign of weakness.
6. Online Shopping Is Unsafe
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Purchasing items over the internet was met with skepticism. Concerns about security and the lack of physical interaction deterred many from embracing e-commerce.
7. Remote Work Is Inefficient
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The idea of employees working from home was often dismissed as unproductive. Physical presence in the office was considered essential for effective collaboration.
8. Mindfulness Is Just a Fad
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Practices like mindfulness and meditation were often viewed as alternative or fringe, and their benefits were not widely acknowledged in mainstream culture.
9. GPS Is Unreliable
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Early GPS technology was met with doubt regarding its accuracy and reliability. Many preferred traditional maps over digital navigation tools.
10. E-Books Will Never Replace Paper Books
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The tactile experience of reading a physical book was considered irreplaceable. Many believed digital books could never replicate the joy of turning pages.
11. Wearable Tech Is a Gimmick
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Devices like smartwatches and fitness trackers were initially seen as unnecessary gadgets. Their potential for health monitoring and connectivity was underestimated.