Is Modern Life Breeding Impoliteness? A Generational Debate

Is the world becoming a ruder place? This age-old question, pondered by generations past, is once again sparking debate. A recent surge in perceived incivility, fueled by anecdotal evidence and survey data, has many questioning the state of modern manners. While the “kids these days” trope is nothing new, the current conversation deserves a closer look.
**A Legacy of Impoliteness Concerns**
The perception of declining civility is a recurring theme throughout history. Lizzie Post, co-president of the Emily Post Institute and great-great-granddaughter of the renowned etiquette expert, Emily Post, highlights this generational concern. “We have stories of Emily dealing with this question,” Post explains, “we have stories of our grandmother dealing with this question. Five generations give us enough time to prove that we really do constantly look back nostalgically and say that they were more polite.” This historical perspective underscores the cyclical nature of complaints about societal rudeness, suggesting the issue may be less about a dramatic decline in manners and more about a shifting social landscape.
**The Pandemic’s Impact on Civility**
The COVID-19 pandemic undoubtedly exacerbated existing societal tensions. A Pew Research Center survey reveals that nearly half of Americans believe people’s behavior has become more impolite since the start of the pandemic. This perception might stem from several factors. Increased stress, economic hardship, and prolonged isolation could contribute to heightened irritability and a decline in empathetic behavior. Furthermore, the pandemic forced many people into unfamiliar social situations, leading to potential misunderstandings and friction. The transition back to “normal” life has not necessarily erased these challenges, and the lingering effects of pandemic-related stress might still be contributing to increased reports of rudeness.
**Modern Technology and the Erosion of Manners?**
The ubiquity of smartphones and social media adds another layer to this complex issue. The constant connectivity afforded by these technologies, while offering benefits, also presents opportunities for impolite behavior. Public displays of phone use, such as loud speakerphone conversations on public transport or in restaurants, are frequently cited examples of modern rudeness. Additionally, the anonymity offered by online platforms can embolden individuals to engage in aggressive or disrespectful communication that they might avoid in face-to-face interactions. This digital divide in etiquette presents unique challenges in navigating social interactions in a increasingly online world.
**Conclusion: More Than Just Bad Manners?**
While anecdotal evidence and survey data suggest a rise in perceived rudeness, it’s crucial to approach this issue with nuance. The cyclical nature of these complaints, coupled with the impact of the pandemic and the rise of technology, suggests a more complex reality than simply a widespread decline in manners. Further research is needed to understand the underlying social and psychological factors driving these perceptions. Ultimately, the conversation about rudeness should encourage a reflection on how we interact with each other, both online and offline, and a renewed focus on fostering empathy and respectful communication in an increasingly interconnected world.

Based on materials: Vox