What has happened to the civility in America?
What is happening to our society and the standard decency of civility in American life? Do these actors in the public eye represent the average person? Is this how your family member, neighbor, coworker, or friend behaves? When I come in contact with my clients or any consumer I do not see this behavior - these appear to be good people from all walks of life in which I enjoy wonderful conversations, whether personally or professionally. What has caused the disconnect and why do we reward bad behavior?
Just this past week in a variety of genres I have witnessed:
- Politics: A congressman shouting out in a sacred chamber to our President “You Lie” in a national address to the citizens of the United States and not being punished.
- Sports: Serena Williams, a great athlete, bombarding a lines person for doing her job with insults and threats after being called for foot fault and only being fined a minimal amount of money for this outburst.
- Music: Kanye West going on stage and ranting in front of the nation while an award is given to Taylor Swift how it should go to Beyonce.
Whether you agree with their points of view or not, is this how we communicate and behave in a civilized society? I was brought up with a value system to always treat everyone with respect. Unfortunately, the trend of rewarding bad behavior continues. We, as a whole, will continue to donate money to the Congressman’s campaign, support and root for the athlete, and buy the popular music. Maybe these public figures “get it” and know that their perceived impression of the dumbing down of America is a money maker. I hope that we, as average citizens, begin to make our point heard and let these public figures understand enough is enough and this is not how to behave, survive and prosper in this great country.
This is not the best way for me to start off my Monday but I feel better already!
2 Comments »
Leave a Reply
Contact
Featured Image
Support Our Communities
After owing a small business for fourteen years, I changed my career and began teaching business etiquette. I had long been saddened by the lack of civility in business activities and hoped to make a difference. However, the frustrations of twenty years ago pale in light of today’s behavior nationwide. I am appalled and saddened that good manners and gracious living are fast becoming a lost art in this country.
I appreciate your comments and agree with you wholeheartedly.
Pat – Excellent comments. I have been dismayed by the slow erosion of civility in our society over the years. I am hoping that we have reached a turning point. All the best.