George Washington's Rules of Civility (and Decent Behaviour in Company and Conversation) [Paperback]

George Washington (Author)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 1420927558 | ISBN-13: 978-1420927559 | Publication Date: January 1, 2006

'George Washington's Rules of Civility' is a short list of 110 principles or maxims by which, supposedly, proper decent people must abide. While some of these maxims may seem dated others are still quite apt for today. A quick read, 'George Washington's Rules of Civility' is an insightful look at the manners and customs of an age gone by.

Editorial Reviews

Review

xxx

--This text refers to the Hardcover edition.

From the Publisher

Akashic Books presents a thought-provoking series of early writings from United States Presidents, starting this season with George Washington, John Adams, and Thomas Jefferson, and moving chronologically forward. Each slim book offers an introduction and additional commentary by a groundbreaking contemporary writer. This series is unlike any other Presidential commentaries in print, and is characterized by a critical viewpoint that will provide a counterpoint to the more staid analyses that have traditionally accompanied Presidential writings. --This text refers to an alternate Paperback edition.

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Paperback: 64 pages
• Publisher: Digireads.com (January 1, 2006)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1420927558
• ISBN-13: 978-1420927559
• Product Dimensions: 7.7 x 4.9 x 0.3 inches
• Shipping Weight: 2.9 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 3.8 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (24 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,346,773 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Discover books, learn about writers, read author blogs, and more.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

17 of 17 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Timeless Codes of Conduct, June 19, 2001

By 

"tmmason" - See all my reviews

This review is from: George Washington's Rules of Civility & Decent Behavior in Company and Conversation (Little Books of Wisdom) (Hardcover)

This collection of rules of civility was copied from a larger volume by George Washington as a small boy. The larger volume was used throughout the 18th century for the character development of upperclass gentlemen. While a few of these rules are more amusing than helpful, the overall work serves to provide the interested person a means by which to refine their conduct. Drop the self help books and adopt these rules into habit for a no-nonsense approach to better public living.

52 of 63 people found the following review helpful:

3.0 out of 5 stars THIS costs ten bucks?!, November 3, 2001

By 

Matthew Gunia (Justice, Illinois) - See all my reviews
(VINE VOICE)    (REAL NAME)   

This review is from: George Washington's Rules of Civility & Decent Behavior in Company and Conversation (Little Books of Wisdom) (Hardcover)

Let me first say that I'm a George Washington fan. I've read a few biographies of "the first in war, first in peace, first in the hearts of his countrymen," and was excited to find this work was available in Amazon.com. Not only would I own the only book Washington ever wrote (although it was written at age 14 and was supposed to be a personal list of do's and do not's, not a book), but I would gain valuable insight into Washington's personal mannerisms as he consulted his old list frequently.

I suppose it's my fault for not carefully reading the info that Amazon.com posted. The book is a whopping 30 pages and has 110 Rules, many of which consist of only one sentence. Furthermore, most of the Rules are things that we do without thinking. One rule advises the reader not to speak "with meat in your mouth" or "Put not off your clothes in the presence of others, nor go out of your chamber half dressed." If you regularly discuss current events while a chicken leg is dangling from your teeth or serve a cold beer in your underware (unless, of course, you work at a gentleman's club), you might benefit from this book.

But I weakly attempt humor. Most of the rules, while they are common sense, remind us of how we, over 225 years later, should interact with people. Other rules advise us not to give medical advice to friends if we're not a doctor, you frustrate the sick. Don't be too hasty to spread news of someone else's misfortunes. In a business relationship, make conversation quick and to the point, yet not cold or unpleasant. While I admit that a few (five, maybe) are very outdated, many of these rules are very useful. The small size of the book allows for it to be carried in a purse or briefcase easily so that you can frequently look at it. In sum, if you have the money to burn, I say, get the book. It's helpful and insightful. If I could do it all over again, I wouldn't get it as I don't think it's worth the money.

18 of 20 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Great Gift for Graduate, May 15, 2000

By 

L. R. Mohr (Seattle, WA USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: George Washington's Rules of Civility & Decent Behavior in Company and Conversation (Little Books of Wisdom) (Hardcover)

This great little book will help any new graduate start in the job market. Precise, quaint and right to the point. Fits in your briefcase perfectly. And, it is hard to believe that a boy of 14 would be so insightful. Perfect for the upcoming young adults!