Nearly half of Americans perceive increased rudeness post-pandemic

A new Pew Research Center survey reveals that nearly half of Americans believe public behavior has worsened since the pandemic. About 47% think people are ruder, with 20% saying it's "a lot ruder." Most respondents frequently observe rudeness, particularly disapproval of smoking near others and taking photos of strangers without consent. Over two-thirds of adults find it unacceptable to bring babies to adult spaces or play music loudly in public. Older adults tend to be more critical of rude behavior than younger generations. Women and high-income individuals are also more likely to express concern about public manners.