Bad manners have become the norm
- Published: 11 November 2008
By Shane Hickey
Tuesday November 11 2008
THERE is a deficit of good behaviour and courtesy in Irish society today and some people see the idea of good manners as outdated, a leading academic said yesterday
The president of Dublin City University (DCU) called for social spaces and youth clubs to be provided where young people can mix, which in turn allow for manners and etiquette.
"It has become common to see groups of people -- often young men -- gathering in groups and terrorising local communities," said Professor Ferdinand von Prondzynski.
"We see people driving cars who, while they are polite and considerate in their normal lives, become maniacs behind the wheel, showing aggression and recklessness. And we see people's behaviour with mobile phones in public places, clearly unconcerned about the disturbance or irritation caused to others.
"Manners are an important element in the idea of a community -- concern for and solidarity with others, and showing mutual respect," said Prof von Prondzynski
"But we now treat the concept of manners as outdated, and maybe even vaguely embarrassing. Real manners are about respect and empathy, and support for community building.
"A study carried out recently in America also shows that people living in an environment where they do not practise or experience courtesy have greater health problems and a lower life expectancy," he said.
- Shane Hickey
