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When we think of rules for behavior, Knigge’s name springs immediately to mind - in German-speaking countries it is synonymous with the fine points of etiquette. However, few people realize that this is based on a misunderstanding. Adolph Freiherr Knigge was not at all concerned with etiquette, but rather with how individuals should comport themselves in a society marked by egotism and crudeness.

Even more surprising than this misinterpretation and misuse of his writings is that Knigge’s book, now over two hundred years old, is quite relevant to the present day. In ten chapters, he describes …