A Basic Human Right
Respect is one of the basic human rights. Every human being, nation and state deserve respect, realized through non-violation of their rights and freedoms. A dictionary definition of respect is admiration of someone or something as a result of their qualities or achievements. However, this definition can be extended with respect of feelings and needs of others without any special reasons. All human beings deserve respect and need to be treated with respect.
All people want to be treated with respect, often showing disrespect to the feelings and needs of others at the same time. The main instances of disrespect are rude words, limitation of freedom and imperious attitude. The generation gap can often become a reason for the lack of understanding and disrespect. Children can be rude with their parents, trying to defend their right for freedom of choice. Parents in their turn often disrespect children’s wishes, trying to prevent their mistakes. Of course, if a child wants to do something obviously bad, such as try drugs or drop out from high school, parents should explain why this decision is wrong and what negative consequences it can have. However, when a child wants to listen to some genre of music and choose a college they like, parents should respect their kids’ right for freedom of choice. Respect is an important factor which is necessary for building a trustful relationship.
People should understand that they deserve respect and they should demand to be treated correspondingly. Trying to avoid conflicts and to reach compromises, some people can sacrifice their own interests. Forgetting personal needs and desires often results in nervous breakdowns and negative psychological effects. It is important to understand that every person has the right for personal space, personal time and freedom of choice and it is normal to ask others to respect this right. Another important aspect is respecting people despite their nationality, ethnicity, religious beliefs or physical appearances. The increasing rates of bullying in schools and colleges because someone does not meet the Hollywood standards of beauty clearly show that youths lack empathy and respect to others. On the other hand, the victims of bullying who get complexes of inferiority should learn more about self-respect and their right to be treated with respect. Showing respect and being treated with respect is a two way process. People should always treat others the way they would like to be treated themselves.
Respect to every human being is one of the major principles of modern humanistic society. However, certain changes need to be made in mass media to make popular culture more respectful. For example, claiming that all people are born equal and everyone deserves respect, the TV shows and movies focus on non-disabled actors with beautiful bodies. Giving more attention to people with special needs and those who do not meet the generally accepted norms of beauty but who are beautiful in their own ways could influence the public consciousness. On the other hand, self respect is an important condition which is necessary for the proper balance in society. Those who know their rights and understand their own needs are more often treated with respect than those who feel inferior to others for certain reasons.
If everyone could be more respectful and understanding, this world would be a better place to live in. As one of the basic human rights and major principles of humanistic society, respect can make a difference, preventing social problems and personal tragedies.
0 comments:
Post a Comment