What is Polite?
This was written in response to:
Whatever happened to good manners? Many books and articles have been written about the lack of common courtesy and old-fashioned politeness in today’s society. From spoiled children acting out in restaurants to so-called experts yelling at each other on cable news shows, people seem less concerned with good manners and civilized behavior than ever before. On the other hand, if people really want to change the world for the better, they have to risk being seen as impolite or uncivil.
Is it sometimes necessary to be impolite? Plan and write an essay…
After reading my essay, I realize I miss-used many prepositions. Some of the verbs don’t match the context as well.
The idea of “what is polite” is relative to every individual. Because we are human, we have inherent flaws to differ from one another. Of course simple acts such as a child’s complaint or whine will universally be considered impolite. However, sometimes it is necessary to challenge the common idea of polite and act in free will, regardless of repercussions.
The youth have always been the greatest source for social evolution by defying presumed notions deemed “polite”. In the early 50s, the American teenager sprung into existence. Because of the post-war economic prosperity, teenagers did not need to provide monetary contributions to the family. Teenagers had free time to do as they please; thus sprung the advent of rock and roll. In a highly conservative time, rock and roll was viewed as rebellious and impolite. The vast majority viewed this social phenomenon as an insult to the “perfect” society. However, over the years rock and roll has manifested itself in pop culture and is no longer viewed as rebellious and impolite. If the youth of the 50s had not challenged the social norm of presumed polite manners, our world instigator for peace (sometimes, as with the Beatles) would not exist as it does today.
In a recently published article in The Economist, an opinion writer “expressed his observations on differences between younger and older generation” office workers. In the bias opinion of the writer, older workers tend to be more polite and formal. Younger writers, many of whom grew up with computers, tended to be impatient and act capriciously. Although they may be a bit difficult to communicate with, younger are a powerful asset to a company’s efficiency. They can be blunt but highly productive and adept at multi-tasking. They know how to confront– and get what they want. Although they may appear slightly rude and impolite, workers born in a generation of computers are changing the way business is conducted. They are redefining the notion itself.
The youth provide change to social formalities. Quite often, their unabashed tendencies are viewed as impolite. Yet, with the world in political and economic shambles, we must turn to those without reservations, those who challenge preconceived notions. Maybe the world needs more direct communication of want and desire, even if it is initially viewed as impolite.
- Photo by Tine Steiss / Used with Permission
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what was your score?
I got an 11. So a 5 from one reader and a 6 from another. 740 writing score.