French culture distinguishes sharply between service (honorable provision) and servility (degrading submission). Suppliers provide genuine service while maintaining their dignity; they do not become servile. Customers receive service with appropriate courtesy; they do not expect or demand servile behavior.
If you expect French service providers to behave subserviently, you will be disappointed and will violate cultural norms. Money entitles you to what you pay for, not to degrade those who provide it. Conversely, French suppliers will provide attentive, competent service while maintaining their standing as persons.
This is not inadequate service but proper service—provision without degradation. Understand and respect the distinction; treat service providers with dignity while expecting genuine service in return.
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