What is a polite distance? It's the distance between two people compelling one to politely hold a door open for the other. Yes, another useless study [0] was performed to determine the exact measurement of a polite distance. It all sounded legit until the variables of "attractiveness" and "phantom politeness" were introduced. And then with the mention of Elton John, the study went completely downhill-- all the way to downright rude! (I'd definitely hold open a door for Sir Elton!)