The Narcissism of Polite Language: When Courtesy Masks Complacency
Written and Contributed By Chibyk!™️ Politeness is often regarded as a virtue, a social lubricant that smooths interactions and fosters civility. In Canada, it is practically a national identity. The stereotypical apologetic nature of Canadians, the careful phrasing to avoid offense, and the meticulous diplomacy in conversations are seen as hallmarks of a well-mannered society. But beneath this carefully cultivated politeness lies an uncomfortable reality—one that reveals a form of social narcissism, where the performance of courtesy can overshadow genuine communication. The pervasive "sorry" culture is a prime example. Canadians are famous for apologizing even when they are not at fault. While this might seem endearing, it often reflects a deeper concern with maintaining an image of politeness rather than expressing sincere remorse. The apology, then, becomes less about acknowledging wrongdoing and more about reaffirming a self-image of civility. This kind of performative ...