Social Hierarchies and Respect

Age and Authority

French society maintains more explicit hierarchies than many Western cultures, though this is evolving.

Traditional Expectations: - Younger people greet older people first - Standing when elderly people enter (formal settings) - Using "vous" with older people unless invited otherwise - Deferring to age in social situations

Professional Hierarchies: - Clear distinction between ranks - Respect for expertise and education - Formal address up the hierarchy - Less casual mixing between levels

What's Changing: Flattening Hierarchies

Startups and international companies often import flatter hierarchies. Some French companies now experiment with "tutoiement généralisé" (everyone uses "tu"), though this remains controversial. Generational divides are also softening in casual social settings.