I'm new here

[Aractus]

I think you're showing the exact lack of common sense that the OP was referring to. Let's consider his wording for a moment "utter lack of respect". This implies explicit disrespect for those with differing values. You seem to want to excuse that kind of behaviour, Brian. You've made it clear that yours is conditional. "I'll show them respect when they earn it from me". Treating someone with respect and dignity is different from respecting their views, and I believe the former is what the OP is referring to more than the latter. There is no need to respect somebody else's conflicting values so long as you show that person you are capable of being respectful and treating them as equal.