The concept of respect for older people?

Question

Am i crazy for thinking this? My parents are telling me how i should respect those who are older, even if i dont know them, but i just dont see a purpose. Im 15 and i only respect people that have reason for me to respect them, i.e. relatives, doctors that take care of me, teachers, etc. Am i wrong for not caring about respecting adults just for the sake of them being older than i am? Just because they work a job doesnst give me reason to respect them, for all i know a random person could be a rapist or drug addict or something! And yet, they still expect me to respect them. In public company i understand using it for showing how polite i am and making good impressions etc, but in random life, why should i respect them just for being older? Can anyone explain?

Answer 1

You should respect people in general.  Old or young.  I bet you'd be a little disturbed by someone who didn't respect you just because they didn't know you or because you didn't "earn" their respect.  

Sounds to me like you still have a lot of growing up and maturing to do.  So take a step in the right direction and listen to your parents.

Answer 2

The respect comes from two concepts.

First, they made it to old age. With war, disease and accidents taking their toll, an elderly person was more of a curiosity.

the second is the wisdom and knowledge you can tap into, so the 'respect' is really a kind of courtesy.

TRUE respect has to be earned

Answer 3

it takes humility to value / respect someone for any reason. I think if you see it more of common human decency and that they should do the same to you then you may understand why your parents are trying to bring you up.  a lack of respect is often a sign of ignorance, immaturity and egotism. when in doubt, show human decency for others (respect). if you run across a rapist, tackle them and call 911. show them some respect to in case they take you to court later for false arrest.

Answer 4

You respect people that are older than you because they have been through more than you.

Answer 5

I have similar feelings [at age 24 and so does my fiance at 27 and though my mother wouldn't say anything she has similar feelings].

I don't believe that just because someone has lived more years than me means that they've done anything to deserve respect for. Respect is earned. I honestly believe that.

I do believe in having manners, but completely deferring to someone due to age isn't something I can totally agree with.

Answer 6

I agree. Respect should be *earned*, not given.

Answer 7

if everyone respected everyone, the world would be a better place... I dont think people shouldnt be given respect just cause they havent proved themselves to you. if they give you a reason to not respect them than dont, but initially do, what can it hurt?  and i highly doubt that senior citizens are drug addicts, gezz they are like 70 and older.

Answer 8

OK so you have a problem with the concept of respecting someone based solely on their age.  I can see your point.  I think your parents point would be better made if they asked you to express a certain level of respect for people in general.