Saying “thank you” is becoming a thing of the past (in the UK at least). According to a new study, four in ten people prefer not to use the phrase because it is too formal, while 13% consider it “old-fashioned”. Preferred phrases include “cheers”, “cool”, “nice one”, “wicked” and “boom”. (boom? really?)

None of which sound to me the slightest bit deeply felt or genuine. All sort of careless brush-offs, or am I simply getting older?

Epicurus believed that we should all live a pleasant and happy life. This requires some give and take, but it is all the more pleasant if those who give generously feel they are appreciated. If the receiver is actually grateful and sounds like it, one is more inclined to give more. So even for followers of Ayn Rand, who didn’t believe in giving anything to anyone, there is a selfish motivation for saying an old-fashioned “thank you”.