Whats Normal?

Social norms are seen across our world in many different ways. In America, we have very 'open' idea of what is normal. Some examples would be, saying please and thank you. In our society, it is considered 'rude' if you do not say please and thank you. Many times, People will mention something if you do not. An example of that, would be when driving and you let someone go, they simply show you their hand, meaning thank you. If they don't, it is very aggravating. Another social norm in America, is tipping a waiter. Usually it is a social norm to tip fifteen percent.

Some other examples, would be to avoid burping and farting in public. It is considered very rude in America to burp or fart in public. Also, Holding open doors is a social norm. Many people in America go out of their way to hold open doors for others, Especially the elderly. Just three weeks ago a middle aged man who was about 50 feet away from my friend and I, whom were entering a restaurant, said 'Wait' and we were very confused. We stopped and he went and held both doors for us. It was very strange that he went so out of his way to hold the door open for us, but it was very polite.

Lastly, Social norms are changing everyday. New ones are coming into place, while old ones are diminishing. A great example of that is marriage. Marriage back then, meant couples were in love and were to be together forever with a family. Today, it is very normal to see couples living far apart, traveling, divorced, no children, and many other scenarios. The social norm for marriage has changed, just like other social norms.