Press "PandaGuides" above to follow us!
A new "campus etiquette" proposal from Baicheng Normal University in Jilin Province has sparked controversy, particularly a clause suggesting that female students should "actively smile and nod" in various social situations to appear more approachable. The guideline, introduced as part of the university's efforts to promote a positive campus culture, has ignited debates over its gender-specific expectations.
The proposal, which was part of a draft "Campus Etiquette Code" distributed to students for feedback, has raised concerns from both students and netizens. The document outlines various rules for campus behavior, including greetings, dining manners, and dormitory etiquette, aiming to foster a more respectful and cultured environment. However, the suggestion that women should specifically smile and nod in all social interactions, while men were not subject to the same requirement, has led to questions about whether the policy places unfair expectations on female students.
One student expressed discomfort, commenting that the guideline "feels gender-biased" and puts unnecessary pressure on women to meet a certain social standard. "Why shouldn't men also be expected to smile and nod?" the student asked, suggesting that the policy reinforces traditional gender roles and may inadvertently create stress for women who may feel compelled to adhere to this social expectation.
On the other hand, some supporters of the etiquette code argue that promoting courtesy and sociability is beneficial for all students. A netizen in favor of the proposal stated, "As future members of society, university students should be taught the value of politeness and approachability. Campus is a preview of society, and it's not wrong to encourage students to practice good manners."
Despite the backlash, the university insists that the proposal is not mandatory. A staff member explained that the intention behind the guideline was to encourage a cheerful and polite campus atmosphere, helping students to develop strong cultural and interpersonal skills. "This is a suggestion, not a rule. We want to create a positive campus culture, but it's up to the students whether they choose to follow it," the staff member clarified.
However, the controversy persists, with many students and online commentators urging the university to reconsider the gender-specific nature of the policy. Some suggested that the etiquette code should focus on universal politeness, with no distinctions between male and female behavior. "Etiquette should apply to everyone equally," one commenter wrote. "Why should a woman be singled out for certain behaviors? Let's focus on promoting respect and kindness for all."
