We hear a great deal about the rudeness of the ris- ing…
““We hear a great deal about the rudeness of the ris- ing generation. I am an oldster myself and might be expected to take the oldsters' side, but in fact I have been far more impressed by the bad manners of par- ents to children than by those of children to parents. Who has not been the embarrassed guest at family meals where the father or mother treated their grown-up offspring with an incivility which, offered to any other young people, would simply have termi- nated the acquaintance? Dogmatic assertions on mat- ters which the children understand and their elders don't, ruthless interruptions, flat contradictions, ridicule of things the young take seriously some- times of their religion insulting references to their friends, all provide an easy answer to the question "Why are they always out? Why do they like every house better than their home?" Who does not prefer civility to barbarism?””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The speaker argues that older generations often blame youth for rudeness, yet the real problem lies in parents’ disrespect toward their adult children, highlighting a breakdown of civility across generations.
In simple terms: Parents often treat their grown children poorly, more than children disrespect parents.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and model respectful behavior at any age.
Themes
respect
generational conflict
civility
family dynamics
Mood
reflective
concerned
Type
observational
advisory
When to use this quote
- family gatherings
- parent‑child conversations
- workplace mentorship
- community events
Key Concepts
social norms
intergenerational communication
empathy
Questions to Reflect On
- How can families rebuild mutual respect?
- What habits foster civility across ages?
A Different Perspective
Older people may also be dismissive, so change requires effort from all sides.