2006-12-29 09:08:14 · 17 answers · asked by Anonymous in Politics & Government ➔ Politics
The fact they have access to people with weapons comes to mind.
2006-12-29 09:26:08 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Sometimes, but not always, they have more experience and wisdom than we do. When I was a teenager I thought my parents knew nothing. When I moved out on my own I was always asking them questions as I began to realize how much life experience they have.
In other cases, we respect authority figures because they have received special training (like the military). To ignore an authority figure is to risk many lives.
2006-12-29 09:10:52 · answer #2 · answered by inkantra 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I think the root cause of our respect for authority figures is one of two things.
The first I would say would be fear of consequence. We don't disobey are parents because they will discipline us (hopefully). We don't commit crime because we are fearful of being caught and the repercussions that follow e.g.; going to jail.
The second reason that I think we respect our authority figures is because deep down we have a need for security and order. Those that disrupt order, have to face authority and are subjected to the consequences that authority provides. Which when I sum this up, this need for authority is also a part of this fear because without authority, we fear the world may become chaotic and total anarchy.
2006-12-29 09:15:13 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Society needs leaders.
We need people to step forward who can express what we feel and what we want to happen.
Most people are not in a position to be able to make major changes or preserve the things that are important so we trust (there's the key word - trust) authority figures to do it for us.
There is a great deal of disillusionment these days about authority figures. But, in the end it's up to us: "we get the government we deserve". I'm convinced that's true.
2006-12-29 09:12:36 · answer #4 · answered by Up your Maslow 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Because they have earned the right of the authority they have.
2006-12-29 09:10:31 · answer #5 · answered by Ted 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Two words: Rodney King
2006-12-29 09:09:57 · answer #6 · answered by Chula 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Stupidity?
2006-12-29 09:10:33 · answer #7 · answered by Darth Vader 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Because that is How I was brought up! and to also have respect for my elders!
2006-12-29 09:13:42 · answer #8 · answered by Dr. D. AKA Evil Woman 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
To make it easier for them to control us. It kind of sucks for some, but it is required.
2006-12-29 09:09:33 · answer #9 · answered by Elerth Morrow ™ 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Ideally? Because they have earned that respect.
In reality? Because if we don't, they'll throw us in jail. Or worse.
2006-12-29 09:16:56 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋