Rich and Strange Aeons

Yeah, and I don't know the exact date, but there's been a big change in Western culture. You're not *supposed* to beat your children regularly -- hell, some European countries have made spanking *illegal*, and even in the US there's consensus against heavy thrashing, vs. debate over the disciplinary effects of a moderate spanking or "don't do that!" toddler slap.

Worse stuff happens -- but now it's stuff the state may step in to prevent, rather than recommended parenting practice.