lurkette

I agree with Bill O'Rights - much of etiquette is simply showing respect for people around you, and most of it is common sense. Someone sends you a present? Send them a thank you in whatever form you think they'd appreciate most. Someone looks like they need help? Offer to help them. True, a lot of etiquette has evolved from ancient customs that no longer seem relevant. But the basic question is whether you are respecting the people around you.

If you're really interested, here are the "rules" for hats for men:

Indoors, a man should always remove his hat, (particularly in a home, church, court room or restaurant) except:
(1) in public buildings, such as railroad stations or post offices;
(2) in the main parlor area of a saloon or general store;
(3) in entrance halls and corridors of office buildings, or hotels;
(4) in elevators of public or office buildings, unless a woman is present.;
(5) if carrying packages, parcels or bags and both hands are occupied upon entry.
If in doubt, it is best to remove your hat indoors as soon as practical.

http://www.bcvc.net/hats/

Basically, etiquette is a code to help you interact with other people and keep everyone comfortable. And I don't see anything wrong with that.

__________________
"If ten million people believe a foolish thing, it is still a foolish thing."

- Anatole France