When Rules Changed—and Why
Over time, societal shifts such as industrialization, urbanization, and democratization have rendered many rigid customs obsolete. The rise of the middle class and increased social mobility diminished the emphasis on strict etiquette as markers of status. Additionally, the advent of technology and social media has fostered more informal communication styles, reflecting modern values of equality and personal space (theatlantic.com). These changes highlight a move towards more relaxed and inclusive social interactions.
