Karl Kraus’s quote, “Not greeting people isn’t enough. One also doesn’t greet people one doesn’t know,” is a paradoxical statement that seems to challenge social norms and expectations. At first glance, it seems to suggest that not greeting people is not merely a lack of courtesy, but it also implies a lack of recognition or acknowledgment of others.
The second part of the quote, “One also doesn’t greet people one doesn’t know,” adds another layer to the meaning. It suggests that we usually do not greet or acknowledge people we don’t have a personal connection with or those who are outside our social circle. This can be interpreted as a commentary on the human tendency to stay within our comfort zones, interacting only with those we are familiar with and ignoring or neglecting others who are unfamiliar to us.
In today’s world, this quote could be seen as a critique of our increasing disconnection and isolation in society despite being more connected than ever digitally. It is common for people to ignore or not acknowledge each other, especially in urban areas or online, where we are surrounded by strangers.
In terms of personal development, this quote could inspire us to be more open and approachable, to acknowledge and greet people regardless of whether we know them or not. It could also be a call to break free from our comfort zones and reach out to others, to make connections with people outside our usual social circles. This could lead to a more inclusive, empathetic, and connected society.
Furthermore, it can also be seen as a reminder to not judge people based on our preconceived notions or biases. Just because we do not know someone does not mean we should treat them with any less respect or kindness. It encourages us to treat everyone we encounter with the same level of courtesy and recognition, fostering a sense of equality and understanding.
