The end of etiquette
Summary
Host Jonquelyn Hill explores the decline of basic manners in public spaces, discussing the "social contract" with Professor Kirsty Sedgman and modern etiquette with Lizzie Post. The episode addresses common frustrations like phone speakerphone usage and airplane seat reclining, emphasizing how to navigate these conflicts respectfully. Finally, Professor Tessa West analyzes generational clashes in the workplace, offering strategies for addressing toxic behavior and establishing clear professional norms.
Topics discussed
Host intro: The decline of basic manners
Kirsty Sedgwick on the social contract
Historical context of etiquette complaints
Individualism and public transportation behavior
The 'reasonable tango' of airplane seat reclining
Public reason and performing compliance
Lizzie Post on the evolution of etiquette
Phone etiquette and the speakerphone debate
Managing phone presence in social settings
Texting etiquette and responding to invitations
Tessa West on generational workplace conflicts
The career cost of poor workplace manners
Creating explicit workplace norms
Resolving conflict through direct communication
Outro and credits
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