OE


What was the case “for eons” is contrasted with the situation “now,” which is that “laxity and tardiness” are “fashionable” and “considered appropriate.” So it must be that the blank is some behavior that is not lax or not tardy. “Punctiliousness,” which is the state of being strict in observance of formalities, fits with the former, and with the latter, too, if punctuality is a formality.

“Probity,” which means integrity or honesty, certainly fits with “virtuous,” but doesn’t contrast with what is happening “now.” Two of the choices are antonyms: “parsimoniousness” means frugality to the point of stinginess and “prodigality” is the quality or situation of spending money without care. hough opposite, both are negative and wouldn’t be “considered not only polite, but virtuous,” nor do they contrast with “laxity” or “tardiness.” The final choice, “panache,” meaning flamboyance or flair, is not indicated by the sentence—don’t read too much into “fashionable.”