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Democratic Attitudes: Respect
In the model of the European Council, Respect is defined as “an attitude towards someone (or some ”thing”, like nature) who we believe to have some kind of importance, worth or value, which again warrants our positive regard and esteem.” “In the context of a culture of democracy, respect for the intrinsic dignity, equality and the inalienable human right to choose their own cultural affiliations, beliefs, opinions or practices different from our own is considered especially important.” They are pretty clear about it: without this respect, it will not be possible to facilitate democratic interaction or intercultural dialogue. However, showing respect in this way does not imply we have to minimize or ignore the actual difference.…