Elder respect: exploration of ideals and forms in East Asia

Abstract

As a step toward a systematic study of the undervalued subject of elder respect, this study explores the forms of elder respect practiced by East Asians and distinguishes a comprehensive set of 14 forms of elder respect ranging from care respect to ancestor respect. Traditional Confucian teachings associated with respect for parents and elders were reviewed, forms of elder respect practiced by Asians are explored based on findings from recent studies conducted in Asia, and the meanings of the forms are summarized. Changing expressions of elder respect and its continuing influence are discussed.