Courtesy and Respect
Socially correct behavior is all about observing The Golden Rule you learned in childhood -- treating others the way you want to be treated. This means acknowledging their presence with a pleasant greeting, always remembering to say "please" and "thank you," respecting their privacy, opinions and possessions, and being a thoughtful and considerate guest, whether it is for a dinner or a weekend stay. Opening doors, giving up your seat on public transportation or simply lending a helpful hand to someone in need without anyone asking are all demonstrations of proper manners. To this etiquette list is added the necessity of giving others your undivided attention by not texting, taking or making cell phone calls, or reading a book while they're trying to interact with you.