The Value of Politeness in Human Society

Politeness may seem at first like a trivial matter, a surface-level courtesy that has little to do with the deep concerns of human existence. After all, it does not feed the hungry, cure diseases, or build bridges. Yet when we reflect more carefully, we realize that politeness is the invisible fabric that holds social life together. Without politeness, even the most advanced societies would descend into conflict, mistrust, and chaos. With politeness, however, communication becomes smoother, cooperation easier, and coexistence more humane. Thus the question, “Is it important to be polite?” deserves serious attention, for its answer reaches into psychology, philosophy, ethics, and daily life.…