Respect, Why don't people give it anymore?

Question

Why is it so hard for people to understand and work toward what this little word means?
I try to give others respect and abide by their wishes, yet get very little in return. Please explain it to me.

Answer 1

In the old days, manners and decorum were a necessary part of life. They separated people on different economic and social strata. A gentleman was not a gentleman unless he knew how to eat, hunt, flirt, and dance like one.

In the U.S., I think we've begun to slide a bit in our manners. We're less formal, inconsistent, overweight, and very into mass convenience. Just once, I'd love to hear 'thank you' from the friend whom I loan my books to, and I'd be totally charmed if a man opened a door or pulled out a chair for me (ok, so I'm a southern belle. Where is Darcy when the world needs him?)

I suggest that everyone in the U.S. reads the Ms. Manners guides, at least so there will be be some understanding of the ways we can respect each other. :-)

Answer 2

I abide to every single statement you made! and STRICTLY. For me respect is the biggest thing I value. and everyone above me has pretty much told you what you wanted know. Well at least all the can be given as fact. Because we honestly cannot truely state the reason for this but this is as close as we can get. Today's parents aren't teaching their children respect, people like teachers aren't enforcing these things in schools anymore, etc. I mean just these seemingly simple things are what are making these huge complications and resulting in the decrease of this now little know word.... respect.

Answer 3

In my opinion:
Society is driven by sensationalism (Hollywood and the media). The American psyche has abandoned respect of culture, honor, truth and tradition and places financial gain as the #1 priority (Capitalism at its finest). That along with the fast-paced technology age we live in has allowed for less interaction with other people, which leaves individuals without that human "connection" to another humans. This in turn probably makes people more selfish, giving their own desires a higher importance than their fellow man's (or woman's).
That's why friends are so valuable if are lucky enough to find some good ones.

Answer 4

I understand what you are talking about. People do not give out respect because I believe that we are not on the same page on what that little word really means. Some people in this world believe that respect is entitled to them. Some believe respect it means alot more.

Answer 5

I wish I could but I cant and I agree with you 100%. Its like people just dont care anymore. The only thing I can think of is that we, Americans, are failing as parents. We just dont teach our kids good manners anymore.

Answer 6

People are growing up with little respect for themselves. They cannot give ou what they don't have.

Answer 7

Be the change in the world that you wish to see.