You make a valid point.. there are cultural differences for sure.. I have noted this in hanging out online where predominantly most of the people I encounter are American.
But aren't there some things we share.. like politeness, that lying is wrong, that we should try to be considerate of others, speak as we would like to be spoken to.. etc?
They are and were in my parents home when I was growing up.....for certain types of people rich or poor they are not needed or respected for those that don't deserve them...
Any one Rich or poor ,big or small are expected to be polite 24/7.....my mother is still strick on that with anyone who cals or visits...including her own family...
She doesnt tolerate fools and ignorant people easilly though..lol
I was raised to be polite and I learned my manners from my aunt. It's amazing what a finger pop on the cheek can teach. I rarely run into those I find impolite. If they are, I ignore them.
Manners are every bit as important now as ever. When children seem to have no idea that they are being rude, crude, impolite, etc. I tell them, and try to do it in front of their own parent.
Benedict Arnold 