Etiquette In Society

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Society

Society explained

What is "society?" Society is people; anywhere, any time, you are around people you rely upon your social grace to help you to succeed. As you grow older you will find yourself more and more involved with society because you are becoming a mature member of that society. In a group, you should remember to control your manners in a more general way, so as to include many people. Develop your ability to follow through with what your courteous instinct tells you what is right. Here are some tips to keep in mind when you are out in public (on the streets, in civic buildings, at games, and so forth).

The main thing to remember is respect for others,

Your behaviour should never offend anyone. If something wrong should happen be ready to show your courtesy by being helpful.

Always look your best, according to the time place and occasion.

People judge you by your appearance. Cleanliness, tidiness, and good posture are all pleasing sides of a healthy person. Appearance is also improved by holding the head up and looking people straight in the eye. Never neglect what is perhaps most pleasing: smile.

It is not good manners to eat (chew gum, drink ,or actually consume food) in places not meant for such activities.

Grooming yourself in public is also not sanctioned---that is, combing your hair, adjusting clothing, or in other ways attending your appearance. Follow the dictates of pride: such personal grooming should be private. Surely you have found it distasteful if you have ever seen someone primping and preening in your presence or before others.

Cover your mouth when you sneeze, yawn, or cough.

This rule should be followed everywhere, not just in public -- for two reasons, common courtesy being the basis of both. The first reason is your appearance; just seeing someone else do it would tell you how unpleasant it is. The second, and most important reason is health. Sneezing, coughing, and yawning spread germs and you can help prevent this by covering your mouth.

Never lounge on the street staring at or talking out loud to passers-by.

It is rude to address strangers and worse then rude to make impertinent remarks in public. Some young people find it entertaining or amuseing to involve others with their stares and remarks; such people are not good citizens. There are many activities planned by communities and individual groups to do away with much of this street lounging, and you should take advantage of the opportunities.

While walking, watch out for the safety of others.

It is so easy to let your attention wander and then collide with another pedestrian. This need not happen if you take care of where you are headed. Later, when you began to drive a car, you will learn that you should be alert not only for yourself and others near you, but to all who may chance to be in your path.

One should never mark buildings, monuments, signs, streets, or footpaths.

The old saying, "Fools names and fools' faces are often seen in public places," is well to repeat. It expresses the general public's disapproval of the vandal who feels he must mark or ruin the appearance of what belongs to everyone. In a more positive sense, it is good to say, "Obey signs rather then ruin them." Signs are an example of public property put up for the use of all. When the vandal has his way, he is wrecking what belongs as much to him as to you. Fortunately, there are good citizens who try to prevent such things from happening.

A rule that has been mentioned before but needs a reminder is the litterbug rule:

Pick up rather then throw down. Particularly in public places, it is poor citizenship to contribute to a messy appearance by careless littering. The law prohibits it in many cities.

When you are in a public place,

you should remember at all times that other people are around. Older persons, especially, cannot watch out for you, and courtesy demands that you should take care not to get in the way. Sometimes it is intelligent to watch and be aware of the crowds. Crowds often generate excitement, even become dangerous, and should be avoided. In any case, if an assemblage does flare up into heated behaviour, keep a safe distance because of possible injury.