Respect, Not Rudeness: A Call for Decorum in Public Discourse

In Costa Rica, we value a certain decorum in public life, a tradition of respectful dialogue that seems increasingly under threat. This column, 'No son datitos de supermercado: respeto, don Rodrigo,' published in La Nación, laments a concerning shift where "malcriadeza"—bad manners or insolence—is being paraded as courage, and disrespect is being confused with honesty. This isn't just about politeness; it's about the erosion of the very fabric of civil society, where constructive debate is replaced by gratuitous offense.

The author invokes the figure of 'don Rodrigo,' a historical or cultural reference likely understood by Costa Ricans to embody a certain gravitas and respectful demeanor. This invocation serves to contrast the ideal of dignified public engagement with the current trend of "malcriadeza." The piece implicitly argues that true leadership and impactful communication stem from respect, not from a vulgar disregard for others. This resonates deeply in a society that traditionally prides itself on its peaceful nature and its commitment to dialogue.

While the article's primary focus is on the degradation of public discourse, it also briefly mentions the upcoming negotiation dates for the FEES 2027 at Casa Presidencial. This juxtaposition is telling: it places the abstract discussion of respect and public conduct against the concrete backdrop of governmental processes. It suggests that the principles discussed—or their absence—have real-world implications for how institutions function and how citizens engage with their government. The underlying message is that a society that tolerates disrespect in its public sphere may struggle to conduct its serious business with the necessary seriousness and consideration.