What's the best way to combat rudeness?

The Ethical Life

Episode 167: In a world that often feels increasingly rude, hosts Richard Kyte and Scott Rada discuss the challenge of combating incivility in our everyday lives.

The rise in rudeness can be largely attributed to heightened stress and anxiety levels worldwide. "When people are stressed, they are not on their best behavior," Kyte said. "They're less patient with others and more prone to reacting impulsively."

This dynamic can play out in a variety of settings, from the workplace to public spaces such as retail stores and on the road. But Kyte emphasizes that not all rude behavior is equal. He distinguishes between occasional lapses in civility, which may stem from neglect or preoccupation, and chronic, intentional rudeness that often comes from a place of dislike for others.

The hosts also delve into the contagious nature of both rudeness and kindness, underscoring the responsibility we all have in shaping the social environments we inhabit. By supporting customer service workers, reaching out to loved ones, and being open to positive interactions with strangers, individuals can help foster more considerate behavior.

Read more

Rudeness may be contagious, but kindness is communicable, by Richard Kyte

How to deal with rude people at work (10 effective steps), Indeed

New research shows that workplace rudeness is 'contagious,' by Megan Border, Anderson School of Management

Coping With The Rise Of Incivility, by Joyce Russell, Forbes

The increase in road rage, The Washington Post

About the hosts

Scott Rada is a digital strategist with Lee Enterprises, and Richard Kyte is the director of the D.B. Reinhart Institute for Ethics in Leadership at Viterbo University in La Crosse, Wisconsin. He is also the author of "Finding Your Third Place: Building Happier Communities (and Making Great Friends Along the Way)."