The Urban Etiquette Handbook In some cities, answering the phone on the elevator might earn you a minor reprimand. But break the rules of urban living in New York and you'll see why so many people think it's such a rude town. We know that New Yorkers are actually a polite bunch of people at heart —if you follow common sense and a little bit of etiquette. That's why we love New York magazine's recent feature "The Urban Etiquette Handbook." It details the four levels of iPod interaction and the two-second rule for staring at fashion models on the Q train. Other practical points of protocol are explained, from love and sex to subway decorum and "stealing a cab politely." Even though we disagree about answering the phone on the elevator (sure beats that awkward silence between floors), we'll be actively consulting this official guide to a civilized city. (in Society & Culture)
