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SOCIETY

In the European-influenced world the more advanced biological sciences have meant that racial and gender equality has existed for longer than in the real world. Also, for similar reasons, homosexuality has been accepted for longer as it is understood to be a natural thing. There was also an earlier sexual revolution than in the real world arising from the earlier availability of the female contraceptive pill.

Female soldiers are used in some parts of the world. There are female guards and archers in India (particularly Hyderabad) and Ceylon, and female spear-wielding guards in Siam. Some female troops are largely ceremonial. However, others, as in Dahomey, are effective front-line troops.

Despite this, abortion and contraception are illegal in much of the Catholic world. This does not stop back street abortionists existing in many places, and contraception being widely available 'under the counter'. In France contraception is legal, but abortion is treated as murder.

Catholicism is more widespread than in the real world due to the larger French colonial empire. This is particularly the case in India, but also in other areas where French influence is strong, such as its colonies. However, because of the Economic Collapse and different circumstances, there was not a large degree of missionary activity in the 19th century, just much the same as previously. Because of this many native religions are stronger and more widespread.

There is less emancipation of Jews than in the real world. Many European Jews have moved to Israel or New Israel. Anti-Semitism still fairly common.

Most nations have national service of one kind or another.

All nations retain the death penalty, though they vary on who and what crimes it applies to.

A better understanding of biology and neurology means that in this world brainwashing, interrogation and indoctrination techniques are better developed, and more effective than in the real world. These are, needless to say, abhorred by the Nullopticon movement.

Many drugs that are illegal in the real world are legal here. Marijuana in particular is widely used. Opium is legal in some places, but most nations ban it after French pressure following the Long War of 1915-1916, when too many French people became addicted to it.

The use of tobacco is widely restricted in many nations. In Russia it is banned, although thanks to the efforts of 'baccyrunners' it is still available on the black market.

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