Date: Thu, 23 Oct 1997 08:55:20 -0600

From: Andrew & Diane Lillie diandy[AT SYMBOL GOES HERE]BYU.EDU

Subject: Politeness (Was: Bless You)



On the topic of politeness, I believe the real debate is a difference in

the definition of what is "polite." To some, being polite means

following traditions like saying "you're welcome" and making small

talk. For others, it means minding your own business. When I was in

Africa recently, I got hit by a difference in definition for

"politeness" when I didn't say "thank you" along with EACH "yes" or

"no." Among other things, I was considered quite impolite for switching

my fork from left to right hand after cutting meat. The difference

wasn't actual "politeness," but what was considered polite in a certain

society.