...I will try to formulate a better response:
Manners aren't just about making others feel comfortable or preventing them from being grossed out: they are about fitting in to the cultural norms.
In ancient Rome it was considered rude to NOT belch after a good meal. A hundred years ago it was rude to NOT spit into your hand before shaking on a deal.
Why? Who knows.
I know that shaking hands upon meeting is considered good form in the US & Cananda. In some other parts of the world you are supposed to kiss eachother on the cheeks. In Japan, you bow to eachother. It is called 'Being Polite.' It's what your mother taught you to do.
There were reasons, origionally why these became customs - those reasons no longer exist. We still follow the form.
The reasons why we still follow these forms is complex but it really boils down to 'pecking-order.' You can find the same type of behavior in chimps, orangutans, gorillas and baboons. Heck, you can find this behavior in dogs.
If you want to succeed, even as a geek, you need to follow the forms of behavior. Don't blame me, I didn't make these rules. |
