If it would please you, it would please me

• To say 'please' is to say 'if it would please you, it would please me.' 
• 'Please' therefore is meant to stimulate the initiative of another and to communicate non-command. 
• 'Please' speaks to the intention of the other and emphasizes their autonomy and self-determination. 
• 'Please' is the ground of diplomatic sensibilities. 
• 'Please' is the expression of self-limitation and submission in recognition of the self-possession of the other. 
• 'Please' and 'thank you' address the chuqim of social intercourse.