reˇspect [ ri spékt ]
esteem: a feeling or attitude of admiration and deference toward somebody or something
Stupid question is stupid. Respect gives me a "feeling" of power and self-worth, as it should for anyone I guess.
And earning respect is easy. You just don't act like a controversial retard/stupid retard. Also do something admirable.
Not really much room for discussion here.
I'm personally more of a fan of loyalty than respect, loyalty gives me a feeling of mastery over peons, and that gets me off since I'm a self absorbed sociopath. (no joke)