4. We don’t respect titles; we respect people.
The internet has served as a great social equalizer. In most online communities your value (and therefore reputation and power) are based on what you contribute not who you are. A well-read 18 year old who knows his stuff and is constantly active in the editing process of a Wikipedia article may be revered more than the heavily credentialed professor who interjects, corrects, and condescends to the community of the page. These relationships break down entitlements and, instead, center on accomplishment and contribution.
So if you want to respected, simply play your part and contribute. You’ll be known for the actions you take that probably earned you that title in the first place.
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