We stand at ceremony out of respect, not for the person, but the office. But why do we follow social customs? Do we oblige habit? Do we assume the wisdom of tradition? Do we simply wish not to stand out?
Respect has value. But why do we lack self respect? Why do we look the other way when fellow citizens make buses and trains inhospitable? Why do we ignore shoplifters when their actions lead to everything in a store being locked behind plexiglass?
Cultures have a way of defaulting to the lowest common denominator. Without socially enforced norms—not enforced by police, but by our neighbors—the worst behaviors become the baseline.
Maybe it would be better to give leaders no respect, turn our backs if necessary, but show the greatest reverence for each other and our shared communities.