The French as all other peoples share a certain number of codes and conventions which guide everyone’s  behaviour in society. These codes establish what is called politeness, savoir faire, good manners or etiquette. These rules of behaviour facilitate relations between individuals. They contribute towards social harmony. They also define what is permitted or prohibited in certain situations; they dictate the obligations of every person within the social hierarchy. Frequently they allow recognition of the social standards of an individual. Indeed, the ignorance or know-how of certain protocols reveals a lack of education or, to the contrary, high standards.