I agree with much of what you say here and in your linked suggestion. I particularly endorse your suggestion that if politeness “greases the way” to the understanding of a message, then it is an integral part of the message.
However, I still believe that there is some value in “pushing on the envelope”, in doing one’s bit toward shifting societal norms in the direction of greater honesty and less ego massage.
I agree with much of what you say here and in your linked suggestion. I particularly endorse your suggestion that if politeness “greases the way” to the understanding of a message, then it is an integral part of the message.
However, I still believe that there is some value in “pushing on the envelope”, in doing one’s bit toward shifting societal norms in the direction of greater honesty and less ego massage.