I think manners are important and i agree with them
however, i can't bear pointless etiquette and manners, such as no elbows on the table - why? who is is hurting? what harm does it do? who cares?
or not eating until everyone else starts - why? your meal gets cold and ruined and everyone else just tucks in not giving a toss about your meal
or waiting to leave the table - why? its wasting time and helps no-one. i personally would feel uncomfortable if a table full of people were sitting there willing me to finish my meal so they could leave the table - did it occur to anyone that this rule could spoil someones dining experience, by making them feel the need to rush it?
or placing your used knife and fork ' just so' when you're done - why? the plate goes in the washing up bowl, who cares what position your knife is in?
of course please, thank you, courtesy consideration etc etc are important and should be encouraged, but i have no time for old fashioned pointless rules