Nobody minded what you did in bed or what you said about God, a very civilized attitude in 1948.

The quote by Simon Raven, "Nobody minded what you did in bed or what you said about God, a very civilized attitude in 1948," reflects on the surprisingly tolerant and open-minded social climate of the post-war period, specifically in 1948. Raven points out that, despite the conservative reputation often associated with that era, there was a level of personal freedom and acceptance regarding private matters like sexuality and religious beliefs. This attitude, he suggests, was notably civilized for the time.

By mentioning what you did in bed and what you said about God, the quote highlights two sensitive areas that often attract judgment or taboo. Raven’s observation suggests that people were less concerned with policing others’ private lives or opinions, indicating a respect for individual autonomy and diversity of thought. This challenges the common narrative that earlier decades were uniformly strict or repressive.

The phrase "a very civilized attitude" underscores that such tolerance was a mark of cultural maturity. It shows an appreciation for personal liberty and a reluctance to interfere in matters seen as private or spiritual. This attitude fostered a society where people could express themselves more freely without fear of social ostracism.

This quote originates from Simon Raven, a British author known for his candid and often critical observations of social norms. His reflection provides insight into the complexities of post-war British society, revealing unexpected pockets of openness and tolerance amid broader social conservatism.