What is the difference between fear and respect and how often do we confuse the two?

Question

Or do we readily accept or even prefer fear over respect?

Do we want the rest of the world to respect us or do we want them to fear us?

Do we want both our friends and enemies to fear us?

Answer 1

i do not respect anyone who i fear, as fear doesn't allow for an even exchange of ideas. i much prefer working with individuals who are bright enough to earn my respect and open enough to welcome my input.

i would prefer that the united states is both respected and feared.

however, i don't wish to be feared by anyone though i would be very content if both my enemies and my friends respected me.

Answer 2

A little bit of fear is good. Fear is a signal like a little red flag. Society has forgotten the value of fear. When we fear something, we learn to respect it. If there is no fear, how can we respect? When we are immature, we hate what we fear and disrespect what we don't.

Did you first fear or respect your parents? When you were a child, your parents taught you fear of hot things, fear of busy streets, fear of disobeying them. You didn't touch the stove because you respected the stove or your parents, you didn't touch it because you were afraid to.

If we aren't taught that the stove is hot when we're little, we have to touch it many times before we understand. Our parents won't receive much respect from us.

As we grow, the fears change, but fear is still there. Finally, as adults, we learn to respect our parents, because they loved us enough to teach us fear. Respect is earned.

The same with other countries. It's better to 'nip it in the bud' instead of letting things go and building up resentments and abuses. In school, if a kid picks at another and that kid allows it, soon there's going to be 2 picking at him, then 3 etc... Why not settle things with the first one, the first time, and not have to fight everyday of your life?

Answer 3

Fear is something we force on others. Respect is something we earn through good examples.

In international politics, some have said, "I don't care if they respect us as long as they fear us."

Unfortunately, trying to assure what you presume to be your own interests through instilling fear in other countries (Blitzkrieg or Shock & Awe) produces a relationship where the other countries are at best disgruntled, obedient vassals who will NEVER see your values as desirable to adopt.

If you earn your allies' (and even your enemies') respect through your high-road example, you create true friends who admire your values and system and convince many people in opposing countries that your system is the superior and more desirable one. Win-win.

Answer 4

Fear goes with hatred or you can't stand someone. Respect is when you may like or even adore them, or at least agree with their point of view.

Answer 5

you follow someone you respect...you are herded by those you fear

Answer 6

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eKVKNYBwCPo&mode=related&search=