Inculcate a spirit of neighbourliness from young
People may prefer privacy to neighbourliness for a few reasons (More people prefer privacy over neighbourliness: Poll; June 28).
They may be worried about their jobs or rushing to work, with no time to socialise; they speak to those with whom they share common interests; or they are so engrossed in their smartphones that they lack social skills and cannot carry out a conversation.
A relative of mine once invited me to dinner, at which one of his sons-in-law — highly educated — did not even greet me or my relative.
He forgot to do so but is a good son-in-law, albeit reserved, said my relative. I have met many such characters.
Schools should educate our children from day one to greet people, including neighbours, although children should also be warned not to be too friendly with strangers unless they are with their parents or teachers.
