From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Etiquette, also known as decorum, is the code that governs the expectations of social behavior, the conventional norm. It is an unwritten code, but it may evolve from or into a written code. The Greek equivalent of etiquette was protokollon, protocol, the written formula for ceremonial. It usually reflects a theory of conduct that society or tradition has invested heavily in. Like "culture", it is a word that has gradually grown plural, especially in a multi-ethnic society with many clashing expectations. Thus, it is now possible to refer to "an etiquette" or "a culture", realizing that these may not be universal.
Further reading
- "From Clueless to Class Act" Series of books on etiquette by Jodi Smith deals with proper etiquette for men and women. Her website can be found at http://www.mannersmith.com where she also produces a newsletter.
- Town & Country Modern Manners: The Thinking Person's Guide to Social Graces, edited by Thomas P. Farley, Hearst Books (September 2005),ISBN 1588164543, 256 pages
The books of Norbert Elias shed useful light on the development of etiquette in early modern Europe. Judith Martin (Miss Manners) has written several books on etiquette in modern society. Written in 1922 but still invaluable today, Emily Post wrote "Etiquette in Society, in Business, in Politics and at Home" which can be found at http://www.bartleby.com/95/
