The Mystery of the 1960s Neck Chop: Why Action Shows Used It

In the 1960s, a peculiar and highly stylized method of incapacitation was prominently featured in action shows: the neck chop. Why did these shows use such an aggressive and dramatic method of knock-out rather than more realistic displays of violence? This article explores the reasons behind this trope and its cultural context.

Stylization: A Method of Action and Entertainment

The action and fight scenes in these 1960s shows were often highly stylized rather than realistic. The neck chop served as a quick and efficient way to convey action on screen. By avoiding excessive violence or bloodshed, producers ensured the shows remained suitable for family audiences. This stylization played a crucial role in maintaining the entertainment value without compromising the conscience of the viewer.

Cultural Context: Entertainment for All Ages

During the 1960s, television was emerging as a dominant medium for entertainment. There was a concerted effort to create engaging content that could be enjoyed by viewers of all ages. The neck chop fit well into this context as a humorous and exaggerated action trope. Its portrayal added an element of surprise and comedic relief, without crossing the line into graphic violence that might be too disturbing.

Suspension of Disbelief: Placing It in Entertainment

Viewers of these shows were generally willing to suspend their disbelief in favor of pure entertainment. While the effectiveness of a neck chop in real life is questionable, the audience accepted it as part of the genre's conventions. The neck chop became a staple of action shows, reinforcing the stylized and exaggerated nature of the genre. This helplessness against over-the-top actions is a common trait in many entertaining contexts, from comedic films to anime series.

Influence of Martial Arts: The Edge of Hand Strike

The rise of martial arts in popular culture had a significant impact on the portrayal of action scenes in 1960s shows. Martial arts, particularly the edge of hand strike, became synonymous with combat after being popularized through various media, including the introduction of shows featuring Asian characters and fighting techniques. The shuto strike, a technique taught to WW2 combat soldiers, marines, partisans, and spies, became ubiquitous in action films for its visual impact and dramatic significance.

Post-WWII America and Martial Arts Doctrine

After World War II, many war veterans had been trained in various military combatives, such as William Fairbairn's Japanese Jujitsu crash course system, known as gutterfighting. This system focused on dirty, efficient combat, paving the way for the edge of hand strike's popularity. Fairbairn's books, published for civilians post-war, further popularized this technique.
The shuto strike was more sensational and visually striking than a common bareknuckle right hook, making it ideal for action films that always courted the sensational. However, attempts at replicating or experimenting with this technique can be dangerous. A rabbit punch or chop to the back of the neck can be potentially fatal or cause life-changing injuries.

Although the neck chop was not meant to be taken seriously in a realistic sense, it served its purpose in the context of entertainment. It provided a quick and clean way to depict action, ensuring that the shows remained both engaging and palatable for a broad audience. This approach to action scenes remains a defining characteristic of many classic and modern action shows, reflecting the continued influence of martial arts on popular culture.

It is worth noting that while the neck chop may seem exaggerated, it reflects the stylized and entertaining nature of action shows from the 1960s. The suspension of disbelief and the cultural context of the era contributed to its popularity and enduring legacy.

For those interested in the authenticity of these techniques, it is important to understand the risks associated with them and to never attempt such actions in real life.