Meaning of respect (what is it, concept and definition)

What is Respect:

Respect is a positive feeling that refers to the action of respect; it is equivalent to having veneration, appreciation and recognition for a person or thing. As such, the word comes from the Latin respectus , which translates 'attention', 'consideration', and originally meant 'to look again', hence something that deserves a second glance is something worthy of respect.

The respect is one of the moral values most important to humans, it is essential to achieve a harmonious social interaction. One of the most important premises about respect is that to be respected it is necessary to know or learn to respect, to understand the other, to value their interests and needs. In this sense, respect must be mutual, and born from a feeling of reciprocity.

Now respect must also be learned. Respect does not mean agreeing in every way with another person, but rather it is not to discriminate or offend that person for their way of life and their decisions, as long as said decisions do not cause any harm, affect or disrespect others.

In this sense, respect is also being tolerant with those who do not think the same as you, with those who do not share your same tastes or interests, with those who are different or have decided to differentiate themselves. The respect for diversity of ideas, opinions and ways of being is a supreme value in modern societies that aspire to be fair and to ensure a healthy coexistence.

Many religions, in fact, address the question of respect for others, because it is one of the essential rules for having a healthy relationship with others.

See also:

• ReverenceValues

Expressions with respect

Respect is a word whose meaning may vary with respect to the context where it is found.

Respect can manifest itself as a feeling of obedience and compliance with certain rules: respect for the law, for example.

Having respect for someone or something higher, meanwhile, refers to an attitude that can be expressed as submission, fear, suspicion or prudence.

To speak about a subject with respect, such as, for example, the different religions, beliefs and behaviors of the human being, is to speak in a sensitive, pondered and reflective way, without incurring disqualifications or contempt.

Likewise, the expression "with all my respects" indicates that what is going to be said next is critical but constructive and with respect towards the other person.

Respect can also be a way of showing veneration or adoration, of worshiping or paying homage to someone, as the expression “pay my respects” indicates. In this case, when we use the word "respects" in the plural, it is to mean courtesy greetings.

“To disrespect”, finally, is not to have the consideration or the due respect to a person, especially when saying an inappropriate thing to him.