Let’s talk about taboos! What are they and what taboos exist in Germany?
Every culture has their own set of topics and experiences which are ok and not ok. If you want to know what Germans don’t like to talk about – and things which may be taboo in your own country, but aren’t in Germany, get ready to find out below!
In this article, we’re talking all about taboos in Germany, so you don’t just gain some cultural insights, but also know what topics to avoid in Germany.
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In the video below, Shabnam an Indian expat in Germany, walks you through taboos that she has found in Germany and the reasons behind them, as well as things that aren’t taboo in Germany that she was used to being taboo in her home country. I think you’ll be able to relate to some of them.
Some of these are taboo in my home country of Australia too and some are not. People would definitely be surprised here if you talked about your income, for example.
Taboos: What Germans Don’t Like To Talk About by DW Euromaxx
In this video, the narrator starts with a personal and surprising encounter at a gynecologist’s office in Germany, which reveals stark differences in how societies treat women’s bodies and sexuality.
You’ll find yourself intrigued as you discover how topics like premarital sex, which might be taboo in some cultures, are viewed through a different lens in Germany—where societal norms have shifted as the influence of religious institutions waned.
As you delve deeper, you’ll explore the sensitive issue of abortion in Germany, learning how the legal and social landscape around this topic has evolved, yet remains deeply contentious.
The video doesn’t just stop there; it gives you a glimpse into Germany’s divided past, showing how the split between East and West Germany led to unique taboos around national pride and political expression, rooted in the dark history of the Nazi era.
Money is another subject Germans tend to avoid discussing openly, a stark contrast to the casual conversations about finances you might find in India. Through these comparisons, the video offers you a fresh perspective on how cultural norms shape what people do—or don’t—talk about.
You should watch this video because it’s not just a lesson in cultural differences; it’s a compelling exploration of how the unspoken rules of society influence your daily life and interactions.
By the end, you’ll be prompted to reflect on the taboos in your own culture, gaining a deeper understanding of the invisible forces that guide behavior across the world. It’s an eye-opening experience that will leave you more culturally aware and empathetic.
I hope you found this video interesting and now don’t have to have a shock if you need to go to the gynecologist in Germany!
Don’t miss our guide here to 6 laws in Germany that will surprise you!
Want to learn more about German culture? Find our guide to German work culture here, homes here and the differences between the US and Germany here. You can also find all our guides to German culture here.
