Arguments in Favor of Teaching Manners at School:
1. Social and Emotional Development: Integrating manners education into the school curriculum can contribute to students' social and emotional development. It helps them understand the importance of social interactions, empathy, respect, and responsible behavior. Students learn to communicate effectively, listen actively, and develop positive relationships with peers and adults.
2. Positive School Environment: Teaching manners can foster a more positive and respectful atmosphere within the school environment. When students are well-mannered, it creates a conducive learning space for everyone. It reduces instances of bullying, promotes inclusivity, and encourages harmony among students and staff.
3. Life Skills: Manners are essential life skills that extend beyond the school setting. By learning appropriate manners, students become better equipped to navigate diverse social situations and interact with people from different backgrounds and cultures.
4. Career Preparation: Good manners are essential for professional success. Employers value employees who exhibit politeness, respect, and a positive attitude in the workplace. Incorporating manners education at school can help prepare students for future careers by instilling these important attributes.
5. Community Involvement: Teaching manners at school emphasizes the importance of being considerate and respectful members of the community. Students learn to contribute positively to their surroundings and interact appropriately in social settings outside the school.
Arguments Against Teaching Manners at School:
1. Parental Responsibility: Some argue that teaching manners falls within the realm of parents' responsibility, and it should be primarily addressed in the family setting. They believe that instilling manners is a personal and cultural matter, and it is best left to parental discretion.
2. Limited Resources: Schools have limited curriculum time and resources, and incorporating manners education might take away from other essential subjects. Some argue that academic and core curriculum subjects should be prioritized over teaching social etiquette.
3. Cultural Differences: There can be a range of cultural perspectives and differences regarding what is considered polite behavior. Some argue that teaching manners in a school setting can lead to imposing certain values or norms on students that may not align with their cultural background or beliefs.
4. Lack of Uniformity: There is no universal standard or benchmark for what constitutes good manners. What may be considered polite in one culture might be seen as rude or disrespectful in another.
5. Overemphasis: Critics argue that overemphasis on manners can lead to conformist behavior and suppress individual expression or genuine interactions.
In conclusion, teaching manners at school offers potential benefits in developing students' social and emotional skills, creating a positive school environment, and preparing them for life beyond school. However, there are also legitimate concerns about respecting cultural diversity, limitations on school resources, and the boundaries of parental responsibilities. Ultimately, finding a balanced approach that acknowledges both the importance of manners and the need to respect individual differences and contexts is crucial when considering whether to teach manners in school.