ABSTRACT
The word Sitte is a synonym for habit and usage, for the transmitted and for tradition, but also for fashion, practices, and the like. Those words which designate habit tend to be interpreted as if their content were essentially unequivocal. The “folk” is represented as the creator of custom. Acquiescence to custom and fostering of custom are only special cases of obedience and imitation through which the young and disciples follow their parents and masters and learn from them. To manifest and uphold reverence for elders is part of custom wherever it is strong, profound and powerful, since reverence is at the core of custom. Custom apparently permitted that the young married couple mistreat the “retiring parents” and let them go hungry. The value and significance of custom often consist in replacing an earlier, more natural practice and in restraining it.
