Given an example of popular characters and people who are more 'liked' for their personality than any of their contribution vs. the same number of people who are respected more than being 'liked' as in respect for their accomplishment, being known via their accomplishment alone, etc, what is your given choice? Wanting to be 'liked' or 'respected'?
I chose 'respected'. Following is my reason:
Both have caveats. If someone likes you, he will most probably not badmouth you on your back. Whereas if someone only 'respects' you as in a fear for your stature/status, he will obey you externally but will badmouth you behind your back. Also, when you want 'likes', you have to confirm with the expected behavior. If you go otherwise, you run the risk of being disliked. Whereas if you want to be 'respected' for you stature and status, you can do and say whatever you want, as long as your stature remains intact and in a notably high position...
The author of this question said he wanted 'respect out of likes'. I respect his opinion also as I think the more popular one becomes out of many people liking him, the more respect he will get from many people...
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