How sincere do you really think people are when they say thank you and when they use etiquette in general?

Question

Can you tell when they're not sincere?

Answer 1

This reminds me of the common child's question when forced to apologize for an action they don't regret, "Why should I say sorry if I don't mean it?" But they are forced nonetheless, and etiquette forces people in similar situations. I personally do not use etiquette unless I am genuine about it, but I see too many people with phony smiles and false "polite" laughter, including those that speak ill of the other person while not in their presence. Sometimes even calling them fake. It's good to be polite and respectful, don't get me wrong, but etiquette seems to make some people take it too far.

Answer 2

I think some people are genuine with their thank you's, and others are just trying to get what they want and are relieved when they get it.

If you want a good scare, go to the Etiquette section here on Y!A and read what passes for good manners! http://answers.yahoo.com/dir/index;_ylt=AsKNc8Gntbi7iySMSiUjS_sjzKIX?link=list&sid=396545165

I think immaturity and lack of education have a great deal to do with it, too. Adults behaving like spoiled children and never having been in social situations where good manners were required/expected.

Answer 3

Yes I do think that the majority of people that do make that effort are sincere. And yes I could tell in the few times that it wasn't that there was no meaning behind it.

Answer 4

To me, if a person is being polite and using etiquette in general, that's the first step. If they aren't sincere in their actions, maybe they're at least sincere in *trying*! And perhaps sincerity will come it time.
So which is worse: an insincere "Thank you" or a sincere "This really sucks!" ??? I'd take the first every time, myself! =)

Answer 5

I don't know how sincere they really are but I do hope for their sakes that they are. It is just not worth faking.
Also I do not always pay so much attention to their demeanor when they say those things but some of the time you can tell

Answer 6

benice

Answer 7

Well I think they are sincere, I'm sincere or I wouldn't even bother with the effort. Its makes your day more pleasant when everyone is nice.

Answer 8

yea I can kinda tell but I do know that I am sincere when I say thanks.

Answer 9

I think it depends on the person.

Answer 10

it's easy to decipher the difference.
for some it's a reflex..
for others it's truly genuine.