If an adult asks a question, it is considered to be of great importance, and people drop everything to get you an answer. An example is the difference between American and Japanese tour groups. Americans bombard the guide with non-stop questions. The Japanese, on the other hand, listen appreciately to whatever the guide knows is important to tell them. You and I are individuals.
Politeness means giving the other person a choice, recognizing their individual preferences.
Take coffee, for example. You have a choice of whether you want it or not, whether you want one lump or two, milk or no milk, etc. It would be considered rude if a host just gave you a cup of coffee without asking how you liked it. In East Asian countries, the highest status person often orders for the whole group. You and I are independent.