Emerson On Civility

Civility, often described as the glue that holds society together, is a fundamental component of a healthy and functioning community. It serves as a powerful force that fosters positive interactions among individuals, transcending differences and promoting a sense of unity. In a world characterized by diversity and varying perspectives, civility acts as a common language that enables people to communicate respectfully despite their differences.

It is a shame in our present society that most people would not even be able to define the word civility, let alone follow its tenants in their everyday social interactions. 

The essence of civility lies in the ability to engage in constructive dialogue and disagreement without resorting to hostility or aggression. It is the acknowledgment of the inherent worth and dignity of every individual, regardless of their background, beliefs, or opinions. In a civil society, people can express their ideas freely, knowing that their voices will be heard and respected. This open exchange of thoughts and opinions becomes the catalyst for innovation, progress, and the resolution of conflicts through peaceful means.

And no one should ever fear retribution for wearing a hat into a restaurant or for having a bumper sticker on their car.

Moreover, civility creates a conducive environment for the development of trust and cooperation. When individuals treat each other with kindness and consideration, a sense of community emerges. This shared understanding of mutual respect forms the basis for collaboration and collective action, essential elements in addressing common challenges and achieving shared goals. Civility, therefore, contributes to the social fabric by reinforcing social bonds and nurturing a sense of belonging among its members.

Here are some basic ideas of civility that so many choose to ignore.

While opinions may vary on the exact list of the most important manners of good behavior, the following ten principles are widely recognized as crucial components of cultivating positive social interactions:

1. Respect: Treat others with dignity and consideration, regardless of differences in background, opinions, or status.
2. Punctuality: Value and honor time by being punctual for appointments, meetings, and social engagements.
3. Active Listening: Demonstrate genuine interest in others by actively listening, providing feedback, and engaging in meaningful conversations.
4. Gratitude: Express appreciation and thanks for acts of kindness, support, and consideration from others.
5. Politeness: Use courteous language, manners, and gestures in interactions, reflecting a genuine desire to be considerate of others.
6. Honesty: Uphold the value of truthfulness in communication, actions, and relationships, fostering trust and integrity.
7. Empathy: Strive to understand and share the feelings of others, demonstrating compassion and a willingness to see things from different perspectives.
8. Responsibility: Take ownership of your actions and their consequences, fulfilling commitments and obligations with reliability.
9. Tact: Navigate social situations with sensitivity and diplomacy, avoiding unnecessary conflict and maintaining harmony.
10. Generosity: Be willing to share time, resources, and kindness with others, fostering a sense of community and interconnectedness.     

These principles collectively form the bedrock of good behavior, guiding individuals in their interactions with others and contributing to the creation of a positive and respectful social environment It is too bad classes about things like these are not being taught to children in our schools new and “progressive” curriculums.

The erosion of civility can have profound consequences for society. A lack of respect and understanding can lead to polarization, division, and the breakdown of the basic tolerance of other’s viewpoints, and for some, acts of violence against those they may not agree with. 

In contrast, a commitment to civility serves as a safeguard against these challenges, offering a pathway towards a more harmonious and interconnected world. By embracing the principles of civility, individuals can contribute to the creation of a society where differences are not just tolerated but given just consideration, and cooperation is prioritized over conflict. Ultimately, civility acts as the cement that binds diverse individuals together creating a unified and therefore stronger whole.

Unfortunately, in our current polarized culture, both foreign and domestic forces are in play working on the age old, but valid principle of, “divide and conquer,” and they are using our current polarization to their best advantage. Most do not realize that they are slow but steady and they have been working out of a literal playbook for at least 30 to 40 years. The generations that grew up and were educated under this deliberate breakdown of our societal values are now the ones with no tolerance for anyone else’s views, even if they are the views of the majority and lack any adherence to the rules of civility.

I hope that we still have enough steam in our resolve to turn this ship around.