Civility Rules!: Creating a Purposeful Practice of Civility

by Shelby Joy Scarbrough

George Washington’s Rules Defined
While our civilization continues to advance, our capacity to live civilly―to appreciate our common humanity with empathy and humility―ironically dwindles daily. Even as we become more technologically connected, many of us feel increasingly disconnected and disengaged from each other.
Civility Rules! offers an opportunity to learn about the history, substance, and significance of civility through the lens of George Washington’s “Rules of Civility.”
Drawing on personal experience, real-life examples, and a foundational belief that civility is integral to a democratic society, author Shelby Scarbrough shares how we might work toward a more perfect union by building a personal practice of civility.
Civility is not an archaic concept of manners and politeness but rather a crucial component of a functioning democracy. Shelby shows us how―with conscientious practice and patience―we can each contribute to the preservation of our democracy, one interaction at a time.

168 pages, Hardcover

Published November 17, 2020

Reviews

[Valery · Rating 5 out of 5]

Civility Rules! Creating A Purposeful Practice Of Civility by Shelby Joy Scarbrough is a thoughtful and factual look at the role of civility in society. Taking a cue from George Washington's rules, the author delves into how we can all be more civil to one another. The author pulls from her personal experience in order to expand on this subject, from working in the White House to starting her own company, Practical Protocol, LLC. She knows her stuff and certainly is able to disseminate her message of civility, humanity, and compassion. With the world the way it is today, these are things all of us can work on to better ourselves and improve the world in a real way. With the current state of affairs in the world, the way in which we segregate ourselves and cut ourselves off from others, this is an important book and one that should be taken note of. A little introspection into ourselves can improve the lives of others too, not just our own. Highly recommend it for an insightful and positive read.

[Pegboard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Civility Rules! Creating A Purposeful Practice Of Civility by Shelby Joy Scarbrough introduces us to the lost art of being civil. In a society that can hide behind anonymity, there is no accountability for the comments made through the internet and it spills over to our personal relationships. Her work with President Ronald Reagan allowed her firsthand witness to how civil behavior can defuse an argument, mend relationships, and avoid a war.

I love how Shelby Joy Scarbrough refers to acting civil and being an adult as similar actions. I would state that the book, Civility Rules!, boils down to behaving with dignity for yourself and treating others with the same dignity in our actions, words, and behavior. The author explains that humility is the core to civil behavior and how to use this attribute in dealing with others. This book is well written with personal examples woven throughout. I finished this book in awe of the author and her stand teaching.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Is there a direct correlation between the advancement of our technology and our increasing reducement of civil discourse? In this book, the author draws on anecdotes and personal experience to explore the ideas about Civility set forth in George Washington’s “Rules of Civility”. Even those “old” rules are desperately needed in today’s society if we want to keep our democratic republic thriving. One thing that is needed from all of us, is a conscious effort to practice civility in our daily lives and in each of our interactions, no matter how hard or confrontational.
I really liked this book. It was a great reminder, even for those of us who think we are civil, that sometimes civility can mean a little humility and a lot of consideration for others and their views. Especially now, when we interact through technology so much more than we do in person, a reminder to stay civil and respectful towards each other is sorely needed. Thank you to the author for a great book!

[Evelyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading this masterpiece since it is thorough but simple at the same time. I dare to say that it is well structured and very helpful. The writing is so beautiful, honest and forceful that I received not only education but also inspiration and amazement from reading it.
Plot wise, it is good and absorbent; and apart from that, I loved that the book was an easy and fast-paced read without nonsense twists. When I finished it, I realized I needed to read more books like this one because it's totally enjoyable and with a great and important message.
We all know that nowadays the civilization doesn’t appreciate humanity, empathy or humility, so Shelby Joy Scarbrough guides us, giving personal knowledge and experiences, to work hard and build a perfect union between us.
I can’t wait to look more into what the author has to offer.

[Carol M. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shelby Joy Scarbrough analyzes Washington’s set of maxims called ‘Rules of Civility’ where he included some important pieces of advice to be polite, respectful and, above all, civil.

Her main aim is to encourage people to develop a sense of responsibility for today’s society as she highlights the importance of taking on an active role in the quest for a more civil society. The author sets herself as an example of how this change starts with us. I strongly believe that this is really important. We might see ourselves as a tiny particle in the whole world. Yet, each one of us can make a difference and by doing so, we are encouraging others to start this journey of self-improvement.

Entertaining, witty and thought provoking are some of the main words that describe Civility Rules. It’s a great read as it is short and fast paced. Strongly recommended!

[Agustina Sureda · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author of this book, Shelby Scarbrough, comes up with the idea that the way society acts has been decreasing trough the decades since the time of the Four Fathers; she then introduces the different ideas about Civility set forth in George Washington’s “Rules of Civility”.
What I really liked about this narrative is the way Shelby is able to teach about compassion, understanding and forgiveness based on her own experienced working for the public and private sector. She dedicates a full chapter to describe in detail about courtesy, humility, empathy, trust and respect and honor. So, I can say that after reading this book, I feel like a better person and I'm really looking forward to applying what I learned in this book, to my personal and professional life. I highly recommend this!

[Rick Burcik · Rating 4 out of 5]

Usually, I avoid self-help books like the plague but this one is actually quite good. Perhaps because this book is quite short it did not summon up my dislike of self-help books. In only about 100 pages Ms. Scarbourgh has done a masterful job of digging deeply into civility, empathy, courtesy, and the like.