One of the reasons I always take the window seat is that no matter how jaded I get, or how many miles I fly, or how many times I hear Channel 9 crackle, "United 55, you are cleared for the Bridge Visual Approach to Runway 28 Right," there's still something wondrous about watching the world go by from the window of a jet.

Courtesy? Yes - if I'm not looking out or using it for natural light, I'll close it. If it's causing glare or whatnot, but I still want the light, I'll close it halfway. If I'm in F, I'll close the far window, too. Want it entirely closed whenever you want it entirely closed? Pick the window seat next time, then, because otherwise it's not your choice.