While I agree with this statement to a large extent, important ingredients that were present in 1934 are no longer even legal. Such as: spanking misbehavior in children. Obedience to authority in schools. Widespread religious attendance; hence a more unified set of cultural values. Clear roles for males and females. Extended family living nearby who would help with the children and some of the chores, and who could beat the crap out of abusers. People stayed nearby, withiout superhighways and applications to faraway colleges and worksites out of a sense of adventure rather than necessity. There was also an ABSENCE of affluence, of easy "cures" for VD or an "out" from pregnancy, so that more people felt the need to restrain their own behavior.
Otherwise, wonderful post overall.
Thank you.
You make SEVERAL good points, that require more thought, candidly.
While there were many good things that came with the “good old days,” there was also some nasty stuff commingled. For example, I suspect it was way easier to strike a woman and get away with it circa 1934. Extended families can also be extended pests.
Yes, I’d like to have my cake and eat it too.
Nonetheless, I believe many of the good things of yesteryear that kept couples together aren’t impossible to reclaim. What I suspect (and fear) is that we lack the WILL to do so.
Thank you for a VERY thoughtful reply.