The Decline of Basic Manners: A Reflection of Society's Shift

Aiden Starling

Updated Tuesday, December 12, 2023 at 3:54 AM CDT

The Decline of Basic Manners: A Reflection of Society's Shift

Confusing Aggressiveness with Confidence

In today's society, there seems to be a constant state of being "on edge" and ready to fight. People have confused aggressiveness with confidence, leading to a decline in basic manners and a lack of respect for others. This shift has had a profound impact on how we interact with one another and has resulted in a less harmonious society.

It is disheartening to witness the frequent lack of basic levels of hospitality at establishments. Cashiers often fail to speak to customers or be pleasant to deal with. This lack of courtesy not only creates a negative experience for customers but also contributes to the erosion of basic manners in our society. It is essential for individuals to remember the importance of treating others with kindness and respect, regardless of their occupation or role.

Another concerning aspect of the decline in basic manners is the growing number of individuals who have forgotten the importance of dressing well. Good manners extend beyond polite words and actions; they also encompass how we present ourselves. Unfortunately, it is becoming increasingly common to see people wearing stained, torn, and ill-fitting clothes. This lack of care for one's appearance reflects a broader disregard for societal norms and a decline in overall decorum.

Despite claims of increased environmental consciousness, littering and dumping have become more prevalent. This behavior showcases a lack of care for keeping public spaces clean and demonstrates a disregard for the well-being of others. It is crucial for individuals to recognize the impact of their actions on the environment and take responsibility for maintaining cleanliness in shared spaces.

Treating others how you want to be treated is a simple concept that many people fail to understand and practice. This fundamental principle of manners seems to be increasingly overlooked in today's society. By embracing this concept, we can create a more respectful and considerate environment for everyone.

The decline in basic manners is not solely a result of individual actions but also a reflection of the world becoming uglier. With a constant influx of negative news and events, it is no wonder that optimism is declining. However, it is essential to remember that we have the power to change our surroundings. By maintaining decorum and decency, we can contribute to making the world a better place.

It costs nothing to present oneself well and be polite. Being the change one wants to see in the world is a powerful way to promote basic manners. It is through small acts of kindness and respect that we can inspire others to do the same.

There is a common misconception that older generations were better in terms of manners. However, this belief is a fallacy. Society generally improves with each generation, and while there may be acts of apathy and rudeness, there are also countless untold stories of kindness and care. It is important not to generalize and instead focus on the positive actions that individuals are capable of.

Manners are essential in keeping society running smoothly and demonstrate respect for others, even if they may be perceived as fake at times. Emphasizing the importance of manners can defuse situations that have no business escalating. By prioritizing respectful communication and behavior, we can foster a more peaceful and harmonious society.

Several factors contribute to the decline in how people treat each other. The fear of being canceled, the impact of COVID-19, and the lack of recognition for extra effort all play a role in shaping societal behavior. The fear of life being canceled has led to a reluctance to intervene or interject in situations, resulting in a decline in overall treatment.

The quiet quitting phenomenon has also affected hospitality. Workers are no longer willing to put in extra effort due to a lack of recognition and favoritism in promotions. This lack of motivation and recognition further perpetuates the decline in basic manners.

Despite these negative trends, it is important to acknowledge that there are still individuals who hold doors open, share smiles with strangers, and help each other in small but significant ways. These acts of kindness remind us that the shift towards a more conscious and caring society is happening, albeit slowly.

basic manners are like grease that keeps society running smoothly. They not only demonstrate respect for others but also have the power to change confrontational situations into more peaceful exchanges. While there may be a perception of a decline in how we treat each other, it is important to consider the influence of selective memory or nostalgia for the past. People's behavior hasn't changed much over thousands of years, and believing otherwise is falling for false narratives. By prioritizing basic manners, we can contribute to creating a more respectful and considerate society for future generations.

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