This may explain it
http://www.french.hku.hk/dcmScreen/lang ... quette.htm Etiquette and savoir vivre
The French, like all peoples, share a certain number of codes and conventions which regulate the behavior of each one in the life in society. These codes form what is called politeness, savoir vivre, good manners, or even etiquette. These codes of behavior facilitate relations between individuals, they help to create social harmony. They also define what is expected, permitted or prohibited in certain situations, dictate the obligations of each person towards the social hierarchy, between men and women (gallantry).
“You know you’re getting old when you stoop to tie your shoelaces and wonder what else you could do while you’re down there.” ― George Burns