How is Respect Defined?
The term “respect” has several definitions but I believe they are misinterpreted. One common view, such as in a martial arts setting, is that respect is taught and subsequently shown due to age and wisdom of the people with who you train. Traditionally speaking this has been the case. The Japanese concept of senpai (senior) and kohai (junior) speaks to respecting knowledge which is historically associated with age. There is a lot of value in this type of training framework but it is only part of the picture I am getting at. Another definition commonly held is respecting others that are more powerful than we are. Being powerful can mean a lot of things but it can include: • Intimidating personalities who physically project their power through words and appearance, anything from a bully personality to the extreme of how a gang member carries themselves (“show me respect or I will hurt you”); • Autocratic authority figures, which can include an abusive partner in a personal relationship,
