We've all been taught about having common courtesy for others, why is courtesy not common?

Question

think about this...............................

Answer 1

Excellent question. But, you have mixed your meaning of "common" within the same question, so it becomes a play on words, not a real question.

"Common" courtesy is about as frequently practiced as "common" sense, isn't it?

But, there are socially acceptable norms for both, and that is what "common" refers to in the phrase "common courtesy". It's not about frequency, it's about that which is considered "common" or acceptible to the masses.

Answer 2

Were we taught, or were we told? To be told something means to not have experienced the actual event, it is simply being barked at us & we are expected to know it. To be taught something, I feel, means it will be more of an experience, possibly through empathy, that will be a lasting memory and act more as an educator. Those who experience common courtesy are more likely to practice it than those who never have. If less people practice it, less people experience it, and so the lack of frequency reduces the amount available to experience. So there!

Answer 3

"Common courtesy" is a myth. Realistically, people are taught from an early age (particularly here in America, where the pursuit of happiness is paramount) that it's important to be assertive to get ahead, or others will walk all over you.

Think about it, if someone (particuarly a boy) is hit, they are taught to defend themselves and fight back. In the supermarket, children watch and learn as mom steps in front of someone in order to get something she wants, or to get to the Fast Lane checkout. In restaurants, waiters are bullied and food is sent back.

All these things alone are not bad (you shouldn't stand around to get beat to a pulp; moms need to get something and someone is standing right in front of it; the Fast Lane is for ten items or less; if you pay for food, you should get what you pay for. The way these things are done, though, are more often than not rude and done in a way to make sure you get what you want, completely devoid of courtesy.

Answer 4

I think it is common. If we are in a rush we are much less to be courteous to others. The feel good phenomenon when we feel good we are more likely to do something good for someone else. The non existent altruistic act we all do something for someone else to expect something in return. And finally everyone is courteous to beautiful people so, if you don't think people are courteous to you it could be cuz your ugly. Sorry people are mean like that. I try to make it a point to be nice to ugly people but they usually take it the wrong way :(

Answer 5

it used to be common, but thats before my day even... id love it if it went back