We don't do courtesy too often in the big city. It's so densely populated that new rules apply -- get out of the way of the quick, the strong, the aggressive.

If the subway doors are opening, PLEASE get out of the way to let people off the car before you get on (same rules apply to elevators).

I was on the subway the other day and an elderly woman got on. Before I could give up my seat, a big dude (yes, he was black & dressed in "gangsta attire") jumped up to offer his.

Maybe courtesy has gone by the wayside to make me notice that but I dunno. A big ol' tough guy giving up his seat automatically brought a tear to my eye.