Breach Quote by Thorstein Veblen
“There are few things that so touch us with instinctive revulsion as a breach of decorum.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Theory of the Leisure Class, 1899
Violating social etiquette triggers a deep, instinctive disgust because it threatens shared norms.
In simple terms: Breaking manners feels repulsive.
Key Takeaway
Respect norms to avoid social backlash.
Themes
social etiquette
instinctive revulsion
norms
Mood
disgust
contempt
Type
observational
analytical
When to use this quote
- formal events
- workplace meetings
- public speaking
- online forums
Key Concepts
Sociology
behavioral psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- Why do we feel stronger revulsion to decorum breaches than to other offenses?
- Can intentional rule-breaking ever be socially constructive?
A Different Perspective
People may still find breaches tolerable if they serve a higher purpose.
