I'm all for diplomacy, politeness and putting others at ease. I don't view being polite as marmalade on toast or pinky raising at all. It's social grease, in my opinion, a necessary component to keep society functioning so that none is harmed.

That said, I agree that the world seems to have become more contentious. I wonder if the internet has contributed to this? The availability of arms seems to contribute, too.

However, I wouldn't lay all contentiousness at the West's doorstep. North Korea, the Middle East, and parts of Africa are very scary places. Maybe it would be better to stop pointing fingers at east or west and instead place our hands over our hearts and daily say "How can I help?" "Let me listen" "Forgive me" and "I forgive you."