September 18, 2005
Campaign Teaches Chinese to Mind Their Manners
Obiously Americans aren't the only ones who are plagued by cell phone rudeness. In advance of the 2008 Olympics, the government has embarked on a crash campaign to instill manners in the world's most populous country, according to Caton Rep.
"The effort has left government planners struggling to break some deeply entrenched habits, including public spitting and urinating, driving that evokes a “Road Warrior” set, and an inordinate fondness for cutting in line.
Among various initiatives are televised manners courses, slogans, billboards and local civilization contests.
Universities stage etiquette contests, slogans on village walls urge farmers to create a civilized society as neighborhoods compete in “courteous community” contests.
China is sparing no effort in the charm offensive. Daily TV talk shows, dramas and prime-time mini-spots provide lessons nationwide on everything from public fighting to the proper use of cell phones."
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