I wonder if the lack of true socialising in families, neighbourhoods and communities is part of the problem? We seem to be more isolated than in previous centuries. Old people, single mums, teenagers in their rooms texting, families silent in front of the TV; there isn't much meaningful conversation or interaction. And the more detached from our fellows we become , the more aloof, aggressive and non-empathetic we are. I was much struck on a visit to London years ago, how people on the Tube sat stony-faced and avoided eye-contact. Here in Norfolk, you can't go on a bus without having a good old yak to somebody you've never met before, it just seems natural. And if you engage with people, you treat them with courtesy and kindness. This is civilsation.