As society evolves, so do its conceptions of politeness and decency. In years past, it was considered universally polite for men to hold doors open for women, which is still thought to be polite by many but disrespectful by some as women continue their struggle for equality.
However, this continuing evolution is not without unchanging certainties. In any governed society it is necessary for citizens to accept the responsibility of acting in a civilized manner towards others. Without people treating others as they would like to be treated, in both speech and action, there is no acceptable example for future generations to follow as they learn how to interact with their peers. Thus, a breakdown in society’s order is inevitable. One generation’s lapse in regarding others with respect leads to future generations of outright peer contempt.
Currently, we are seeing some issues arise regarding our generation’s version of manners. As printed in the last issue of the Rampage, smokers on campus have been gaining attention, primarily because of the rude actions of a select few who choose to smoke inside building limits and near others who don’t want to be around it. This is a prime example of people acting in a way that is offensive and takes no responsibility for their own actions.
Speech is also a large part of this issue. When talking to others, especially around children, it remains important not to swear if you can avoid it. Yes, I am guilty of using profanity far too often, but that doesn’t make it ok, and I can change myself. What I always fail to understand is people swearing openly around young children, as if saying such vulgar words is somehow ok for their children to hear. It’s not.
These are simply minor things in a much larger picture. We as a generation face a music industry riddled with egotistical idiocy, a media industry that cares more about yelling and arguing like children then reporting anything of worth, and a family unit that has been torn apart by divorce and abuse. It’s time we take control of our lives. Examine yourself, how you act around others, and always remember that timeless rule: “Do unto others as you would have others do unto you”.