respectus

Respectus is a term encountered in some English-language discussions to denote the concept of respect or, more narrowly, a deliberate practice of mutual regard. There is no universal definition, and meanings vary by discipline. In philosophy and social science, respectus can refer to an ethical obligation to acknowledge the inherent dignity of others and to engage with them in ways that uphold that dignity. In modern discourse, it is sometimes used as a shorthand for codes of conduct designed to foster civil dialogue, such as attentive listening and non-demeaning language.

Etymology and history: Respectus derives from Latin respectus, meaning “regard, consideration, attention,” from respicere “to look back at, regard.” In English, the term is uncommon outside scholarly or Latin-language contexts and tends to appear in discussions about the concept of respect rather than as a standard lexical item.

Usage and interpretation: Because respectus is not an established term with a fixed definition, its meaning can shift between scholars, educators, and online communities. Some treat it as a holistic virtue encompassing dignity, fairness, and listening; others use it as a label for group norms that promote respectful interaction within institutions or forums.

See also: Respect, Dignity, Civility, Etiquette.