What’s Happening to Cultural Norms in Germany?

As a foreigner who has been living in Germany for two years now, I initially believed that Germans were among the neatest, politest, and most hygienic people in the world. In fact, I was quite anxious that I wouldn't be neat and polite enough to blend into the local culture.

However, after observing my daily life occurrences here in Baden-Württemberg, which is supposedly one of the cleanest federal states in Germany, I find myself increasingly confused regarding where this stereotype came from. I often encounter constant pushing in public transport, people talking loudly on their phones, putting their feet on the seats in front of them, blocking seats with suitcases, bikes, or even plain bags, and not letting people exit public transportation before hopping in.

Additionally, I have observed instances of people looking for fights (even physical ones), smoking or drinking on trains, and not washing their hands after using the bathroom or showering once a week.

What has happened to the German culture I had heard so much about? Was I always deceived by an idealized version of German culture that never existed in the first place? I would love to hear your thoughts and experiences regarding this matter.

Thank you for reading and sharing your insights.