Bordsetik

Bordsetik, or table etiquette, is the set of social norms that govern behavior during meals. It covers how people dress, arrive, sit, and interact at the table, as well as how food is served, eaten, and cleared. The term is Danish in origin, reflecting a tradition of formal and informal dining rules that constitutes part of Western hospitality practices. Bordsetik is not a fixed code; it varies by culture, occasion, and era, and is shaped by the relationships among participants and the setting.

Typical elements include arrangement of seating and punctuality; the host often receives guests and inaugurates the meal. In formal settings, guests follow a specific order of using cutlery, begin with the host's welcome, and wait for everyone to be served before starting. Utensil use generally follows a from-the-outside-in approach, with napkin placed on the lap, and hands kept visible above the table when appropriate. Conversation, tone, and topics are guided by the context, with attention to avoiding loud or offensive remarks. It is customary to pause while others are eating and to express appreciation to the host or cooks at the end.

In contemporary usage, bordsetik ranges from strict ceremonial etiquette to relaxed, business-like norms, and it often emphasizes inclusivity and comfort alongside politeness. Critics argue that rigid codes can be exclusionary or outdated, while proponents view etiquette as a framework for respectful social interaction. The concept overlaps with broader ideas of civility and professional conduct in social dining.