indecência

Indecência is a Portuguese term that designates conduct, speech, or representations that contravene prevailing norms of modesty, decency, or public morality. The concept is diffuse and highly context-dependent, varying across cultures, time periods, and social settings. The word derives from Latin indecens, meaning “not fitting,” and it is related to other judgments such as vulgarity, obscenity, or impropriety.

In legal usage, many jurisdictions distinguish acts deemed indecent in public spaces from more severe offenses such as obscenity or sexual crimes. In these contexts, indecência may refer to acts considered socially disreputable or offensive to public sensibilities and can carry penalties or sanctions, especially when minors or public order are involved. However, definitions, thresholds, and penalties differ widely between legal systems.

In sociology and ethics, indecência is analyzed as a norm-driven category reflecting moral codes and social control mechanisms. Norms around decency are negotiated within communities and can evolve, leading to shifts in what is deemed indecent—such as attitudes toward sexuality, body representation, or media content.

In media and communications, indecência is often invoked in guidelines that assess content suitability for audiences, with distinctions drawn between what is considered indecent and what is legally obscene or protected by freedom of expression. Public discussion about indecência typically centers on balancing cultural norms with rights to expression, censorship concerns, and the protection of vulnerable groups.