Respect for authority from "summary" of The Psychology of Moral Development by Lawrence Kohlberg
Respect for authority is a critical foundation for moral behavior. It is important to understand the reasons why people should obey and show respect for those in power, and how this can help to form better decisions. Learning the importance of respecting authority can lead to a more harmonious society.- Respect for authority is a human value that can be taught and learnt over time as it helps build a sense of stability and order in everyday life.
- Respect for authority includes understanding how to keep oneself accountable without anyone’s intervention, which itself requires strength of character and improved self-discipline.
- Practicing respect for authority figures should start early in life so that it builds up over time and instills values such as discipline and punctuality.
- It is important to learn to respect authority figures from school teachers to workplace bosses, as they have been designated power by those above them.
- Learning to respect authority means accepting their decisions even when one may not agree with them; this teaches the importance of compromise.
- Authority figures exist to provide guidance and set boundaries and it is up to us to recognize the need to respect and appreciate these control mechanisms otherwise order will be lost.
- Lastly, by embodying respect for authority, we can happily contribute to society and be beneficial members of our communities.
