How fascinating: all the different social cues that must be followed. There's the famous “thank you,” or the “excuse me,” and then there is the never ending “God bless you.” These terms so quickly become pointless and habitual. The same can be said for the handshake. What an obligation it is, having to shake the hand of everyone you “properly” meet. The repetitiveness of these forced interactions can hinder society, thus making it more fake.
Sure, it is respectful to muster a “thank you” when someone holds the door open for you. Those are manners. However, aren't some of societies obligations simply excessive? I'm Italian and yes, I have that huge Italian family. Since I was about the age of three it was fed into my head that you kiss loved ones on the cheek when saying hello or goodbye. Of course, it became natural fairly quickly. I can't even remember a time when this was not the case. But, as I grew older I wondered: why are we forced to kiss everyone? Out of respect maybe. To show love. All points are valid and personal. I don't mind the custom as it's part of my family tradition and I respect that. It may be rather overdone, but its part of our manners.
Above all else, the most forced interaction is small talk. I dread the thought of it, of just speaking rubbish because it would be awkward to stay quiet, forced to conjure some menial topics of conversation. This obligation is the absolute worst. We need deeper conversations in society, or even just topics that you have an opinion on. Something with shared interest.
Regardless of weather they're manners or something society forces us to do, its important be respectful and rarely rude.
