POLITENESS, n. The most acceptable hypocrisy.

Ambrose Bierce (1842-1914?) American writer and journalist

“Politeness,” The Devil’s Dictionary (1911)
    (Source)

Originally published in the "Cynic's Word Book" column in the New York American (1906-03-16) and the "Devil's Dictionary" column in the San Francisco Wasp (1906-03-21).