Good manners? Bad manners? Does it matter?
In my country, we have certain customs and etiquettes that are considered good manners. Here are some examples:
Greeting people:
We don't kiss people on both cheeks when we meet them for the first time.
It is common to call older people by their first names.
When speaking to an older person, using more formal language is appreciated.
In a restaurant:
It is not considered good manners to let your children run around and be noisy.
Being overly affectionate to your partner in public may be seen as inappropriate.
It is considered impolite to talk on your mobile phone loudly in a restaurant.
Men and women - a man's role:
It is customary for a man to pay for a woman on the first date.
It is polite to wait for a woman to go through the door first.
Ensuring a woman's safety and making sure she gets home safely at night is considered chivalrous.
Driving:
It is important to always stop at a pedestrian crossing and give priority to pedestrians.
Honking at someone who is driving slowly may be seen as rude or impatient.
Playing loud music with the window down can be disturbing to others and is considered inconsiderate.
Visiting people:
It is customary to take a present if you're invited to dinner at someone's house as a token of appreciation.
Arriving more than 10 minutes late for a lunch or dinner is considered disrespectful and can be seen as bad manners.
Smoking in a house where the owners don't smoke is generally not considered polite, as it may bother non-smokers.
In conclusion, good manners do matter in various social situations as they show respect, consideration, and cultural awareness. Adhering to local customs and etiquettes helps foster positive interactions and demonstrates politeness towards others.
