There are three social classes in America: upper middle class, middle class, and lower middle class.

The rationale that etiquette should be eschewed because it fosters inequality does not ring true in a society that openly admits to a feverish interest in the comparative status-conveying qualities of sneakers. Manners are available to all, for free.

the obligation to express gratitude deepens with procrastination. The longer you wait, the more effusive must be the thanks.

You don't want to look too chic at a Washington party or people will think you don't have a job worth losing.

Allowing an unimportant mistake to pass without a comment is a wonderful social grace ... Children who have the habit of constantly correcting should be stopped before they grow up to drive spouses and everyone else crazy by interrupting stories to say, 'No, dear -- it was Tuesday, not Wednesday.

We are born charming fresh and spontaneous and must be civilized before we are fit to participate in society.

Ideological differences are no excuse for rudeness.