Things older generations thought were polite — but young people totally disagree

For decades, it was considered rude to talk about money, mental health, or politics at the table. “Don’t rock the boat” was the golden rule of polite conversation.

But Gen Z and Millennials are rewriting that rulebook. Today’s social etiquette trends lean toward openness, transparency, and vulnerability.

Talking about therapy, salary gaps, or inequality isn’t rude anymore — it’s responsible. For younger generations, silence often feels dishonest or complicit.

Being polite doesn’t mean avoiding tough conversations; it means having them with empathy and respect.