Social Courtesy (1951). Dramatic film offering instruction in basic social graces. Producer: Coronet Instructional Films. Creative Commons license: Public Domain. Presents information on specific social graces and shows how to make them a natural part of daily activities. Illustrates that getting along in social groups merely requires the use of everyday courtesy. The first thing people notice about other people is the way they look. And whether we like it or not, how you look makes an impression on people. But you can use this knowledge to your advantage. If you look neat and clean, people will feel as though you're the kind of person who makes an effort. A nice appearance shows that you value yourself and what other people think of you. Putting forth a nice appearance doesn't mean you have to spend a lot of money on clothes or accessories. Someone can look slovenly and messy in an expensive suit if they don't brush their hair or clean their clothes. Someone else can appear put together in a old shirt and slacks that have been cleaned and pressed. Showing that you take care over your appearance is more important than what you wear or how expensive your hair cut is. In addition to taking care over your appearance, it's also important to consider if your appearance is appropriate for the situation. You may look lovely in your party clothes or feel confident in your business suit, but these would look out of place in a more casual setting such as at a picnic or at the movies. It's important to be comfortable in what you're wearing, but you also want to fit in (within reason!) with what other people will be wearing. Wear what suits both you and the situation best: jeans and t-shirts are fine for friends and the movies; a nice shirt and slacks or suit is more appropriate for work; party clothes should be saved for parties or fancy occasions. The same goes for accessories and make up: glitter eye shadow and elaborate hair might be fun after work, but look odd for a business meeting; you may feel most comfortable lounging in sneakers and a baseball cap, but not at a fancy restaurant or party. Think about what the majority of people will be wearing in the situation and wear something that fits in and makes you feel comfortable. Respecting other people means you also respect their wishes. If someone tells you a secret or asks you to keep something in confidence, you should. If you don't feel comfortable doing this, it's fine to say that you don't feel comfortable keeping secrets -- just be sure to do this before the person shares their secret with you. There are some very rare exceptions to this rule: if you find out that someone is being hurt or is in danger and they are afraid to tell anyone, you should encourage them not to keep their secret. If that person is too afraid to talk, you may want to ask an expert (such as a doctor, therapist, or policeman) for their advice - you don't have to give away your friend's secret, but they may be able to help.
In 1983-87 I was in high school. One day in class, for reasons I dont know or recall, they rolled in the school 16mm movie projector and played a few of these old 1950s Coronet films on how to date, how to be polite, etc. My classmates laughed through them. The wooden acting, the squeaky clean activities, the over politeness, the innocent slang used at the time (gee, golly, etc). I on the other hand wasnt laughing. I found these films to be quite charming. A time capsule of a more innocent era.
classicphile 2 years ago 9
This video could just as easily be titled "Just Stop Being an Asshole!" I love these old educational films. Somehow, I'm becoming addicted to them! :-)
VerdantNight 5 months ago