Ten Reasons Respect Has Evaporated in the US

Ron McIntyre
5 min readAug 30, 2024

Growing up in the 1960s, everyone thought respect was crumbling. However, from my point of view, it was just coming to the forefront of business and society. People were not hiding behind facades or masks, and honest communication would be the primary outcome. It’s sad how we have disintegrated this far in my 77 years.

Once considered a cornerstone of American society, respect has diminished significantly over recent decades. In a nation built on the principles of freedom, equality, and mutual understanding, the erosion of respect is a concerning trend that has implications for the very fabric of our communities. This shift can be observed in various aspects of life, from personal interactions to public discourse, and its impact is widespread and profound. Understanding the reasons behind this decline is crucial, but it also engages us in addressing the issue and potentially restoring a sense of respect in American culture.

Here are my ten key reasons why respect has evaporated in the US.

1. Addiction to Social Media

Social media has transformed communication, allowing people to express their opinions instantaneously and often anonymously. While this can be empowering, it has also led to increased incivility. The lack of face-to-face interaction on these platforms can make it easier for people to be disrespectful, as they don’t see the immediate impact of their words on others. They don’t feel any consequences to what or how they say things because they hide behind a screen.

2. Polarization of Politics

The political landscape in the US has always been polarized, with people more likely to identify strongly with their political party and view the opposition with suspicion or hostility. However, this divisiveness has become caustic and toxic and fosters an environment where respect for differing opinions is ignored, and civil discourse becomes rare.

3. Erosion of Family Values

Traditional family structures and values that once emphasized respect for elders and authority figures have weakened. As these family dynamics change, the lessons of respect that were often taught at home are becoming less common, leading to a broader societal impact.

While this is true, the more critical factor is the emphasis on selfishness and personal advances regardless of the cost to others. Goodness, respect, and trust can be taught in any family structure, but it requires understanding the need to put others ahead of us in many situations.

4. Decline in Education Quality

Education is a critical avenue for instilling respect through formal instruction and the social environment of schools. However, the perceived decline in the quality of education, coupled with disciplinary challenges in schools, has contributed to a generation less versed in respect and civility.

Our education system is rapidly becoming a business of teaching children and adults what to think rather than how to think. Critical thinking has disappeared in many environments. When we start rewriting history or avoid teaching diversity, we will eventually become one colossal cult.

5. Economic Inequality

The growing gap between the rich and the poor has fueled resentment and frustration across the socioeconomic spectrum. Economic hardship can lead to stress and anger, which, in turn, can manifest as disrespect towards those perceived as more fortunate or towards the institutions seen as perpetuating inequality. This seems to have continued, although the data shows a massive problem. Part of the issue is tied to the leadership worship of corporate leaders who seem to command a presence, a salary, and benefits far exceeding those of individual workers.

If this continues, there will be a revolution. I can’t predict whether it will be an intellectual, emotional, or physical revolution, but it is coming.

6. Imposed Celebrity Culture and Media Influence

The glorification of celebrities and reality TV’s influence has shifted societal values. They often reward behavior that lacks respect, such as public feuds, arrogance, or sensationalism. When disrespectful behavior is seen as a path to fame and success, it becomes normalized and even emulated by the public.

7. Loss of Community Engagement

Community organizations and activities that once brought people together and fostered mutual respect have seen a decline. As people become more isolated due to technology or busy lifestyles, opportunities to practice and experience respect within a community diminish.

While some of these organizations were somewhat suspicious in practice, they generated a sense of loyalty and compatibility not found in the public. Social clubs have all become extinct, but where they remain, they have often become cults, so the benefits to the public are limited.

8. Increased Stress and Mental Health Issues

The pressures of modern life, including economic stress, job insecurity, and the fast pace of daily living, have led to an increase in anxiety and mental health challenges. When people are overwhelmed, their capacity for patience and understanding can decrease, leading to more frequent disrespectful interactions.

9. Disregard for Authority

There has been a growing trend of questioning and outright rejecting authority, whether law enforcement, government officials, or educators. While healthy skepticism can be beneficial, the broad dismissal of authority figures undermines the respect traditionally afforded to those in leadership roles.

When we have this level of disrespect for authority, we often blame the individual; however, much of this has occurred because of manipulation and corruption in the entities noted above. Yes, there are great public service officers and employees, but the bad apples ruin the whole basket because we need to blame someone for an error, intimidation, and the fear of reprisal.

10. Cultural Shifts in Norms and Values

As societal norms and values evolve, what is considered respectful or disrespectful can change. The US has seen significant cultural shifts in recent decades, with new social movements challenging traditional ideas. While these movements have advanced important causes, they have also contributed to questioning previously accepted standards of respect.

Evolution should be natural, but we have become so focused on territorial marking and a desire to go back to a time when we thought it was better that we have lost sight of what a great future we can have if we keep an open mind and are willing to change.

In summary, the decline of respect in the US is a complex issue influenced by social, economic, and cultural factors. Addressing this trend will require a concerted effort across various sectors of society, including education, media, and community organizations. By understanding the underlying causes, we can find ways to rebuild respect and foster a more civil and cohesive society. The potential for change is within our reach, inspiring hope for a future where respect is once again a cornerstone of American culture.

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Ron McIntyre

Ron McIntyre is a Leadership Anthropologist, Author, and Consultant, who, in semi-retirement, is looking to help people who really want to make a difference.