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Good manners come, as we say, from good breeding or rather…

“Good manners come, as we say, from good breeding or rather are good breeding; and breeding is acquired by habitual action, in response to habitual stimuli, not by conveying information.” quote by John Dewey
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“Good manners come, as we say, from good breeding or rather are good breeding; and breeding is acquired by habitual action, in response to habitual stimuli, not by conveying information.”

John Dewey

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Good manners develop through repeated actions triggered by consistent stimuli, not just by instruction.

In simple terms: Manners are learned by habit, not teaching.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate positive habits.

Themes

education behavior social norms

Mood

reflective educational

Type

philosophical practical

When to use this quote

  • parenting
  • school curricula
  • workplace etiquette

Key Concepts

habit formation learning theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • What habits shape your social behavior?
  • How can you redesign stimuli for better manners?
A Different Perspective

Habits can be hard to change once formed.

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