Politeness, n. The most acceptable hypocrisy.

Summary

This quote sarcastically defines politeness as a socially accepted form of hypocrisy. It suggests that the act of being polite often involves suppressing one's true feelings and presenting a facade of kindness and respect. This view implies that politeness can sometimes be insincere, as individuals may prioritize appearing polite over expressing their genuine thoughts or emotions. It serves as a critical commentary on the societal expectations surrounding politeness and raises questions about the authenticity of interpersonal interactions.