It is funny the way culture changes, the way concepts flip to polar opposites. As a society, some of these changes are for the better, gay marriage, women rights, both of which have been beneficial changes in society. A controversial culture shift has been changed dating forever; the hookup culture.
If we were to compare the way this culture of "hooking up" has changed, we will have to travel back to simpler times including curfews, first dates, and drive-in movies. Here is a comparison between now and 1950s.
1. Curfew
Then: After a date out with a boy your father approved of, you were told to be back before nine and don't be late.
Now: There is rarely ever a curfew, 1 a.m. or 2 a.m. tops. The freedom is time is at our fingertips.
2. Dinner and who pays?
Then: A women would rely to her date what she would like for dinner and he would order for her. The man always pays for dinner. It would be unacceptable for a women to provide anything during a date. It would cause embarrassment to the man if a woman tried to pay for his meal since he should be considered the bread winner.
Now:A women is considered fully capable of ordering her own dinner and extra side of ranch. When it comes to who pays, it's a coin toss. Although it is nice for the guy to pay for dinner, it would not be uncommon or unacceptable for the girl to pay.
3. Marriage
Then: It wouldn't be uncommon to be married at 18 and pregnant by 21. The importance of family was instilled at an early age.
Now: Women are waiting much longer to get married. They are exploring career options and traveling the world, making much of their life a personal expedition before settling down.
4. Father's Permission
Then: It was important for your father to approve of any potential suitor to date their daughter. If they didn't give their stamp of approval, you don't date.
Now: Women rarely feel the need for their father to approve of a potential relationship. Although most still value opinions of our family members, we do not let that make or break our relationships.
5. Being a "Floozie"
Then: It was extremely frowned upon and embarrassing to be known as a floozie -- you were expected to be a proper and elegant women with class.
Now: Women are able to express and experiment with their bodies more, although many argue this freedom of expression has caused women to be considered indecent.
6. Asking someone on a date
Then: A man would ask his prospective date out for dinner and would expect an immediate answer.
Now: We don't necessarily ask face-to-face for dates. We have alternatives such as Tinder and Facebook that has taken away from the personal touches of asking someone out.
7. Heterosexual Dating
Then: It was considered inappropriate and horrible to allow gay and lesbian couples to date. Dating and marriage belonged to a man and a woman.
Now: Fortunately, we have created a path for those who are in love to be in love.