Embarrassing names decline in the UK

According to a researcher in the UK, the names Cockshot, Balls, Death and Daft have decreased remarkably in the last few decades. When something like this happens, it is usually due to extenuating circumstance rather than natural selection. Outside of the obvious reasons like marriage or mass emigration to other areas the reasons seem to demonstrate how language has evolved. Names, which were once considered acceptable are now embarrassing due to modern definitions and innuendos given to them. The researcher, Richard Webber, has a site called "mapyourname" where anyone can go and do their own surname research. Knowing the various surnames of the modern world can be an important tool for writers and genealogists. A writer can use names which are common to a geographic area or choose to make up a name which does not exist. The genealogist can compare the evolution of their own surnames and predict the future of their family lineage. They know that the spelling of their family name has changed and branched out over time. Understanding the trends and reasons behind this in invaluable in creating links in their ancestral chain. The meanings of words changes with the times. An offensive word in ancient Rome is not necessarily offensive today.
Changing your name is a big deal. It not only affects you but also your decendents. You may decide that you are protecting your children and grandchildren from public ridicule. If you had some of the names listed in the research, you would be right.