You idiots - go into a court one day and just shut up until you do. The respect is mutual! The magistrate enters and then bows to the assembled people who bow back. If the Magistrate does it to us we should do it back to them. If you do not want to then stay away. If some filth thinks it is clever to disrespect the Magistrate he should give them a two year sentence, cancel legal aid for them and send them to another court. Take a cent off these bludgers and that will soon bring them to heel!

Dear Philip S.,

You ask why should anyone have to bow to anyone else?

Simply as a customary sign of respect. You are in
court for a reason. And the judge or magistrate is
there to decide your fate. You bow to acknowledge
his position.

For Muslims it is required to take off your shoes
before entering a mosque.

In some cultures young people bow or curtsy to older
people as a sign of respect.

It seems that some people would strip us of all signs of courtesy, dignity and decorum. Simple are manners sneered at these days.

Muslims are not stripping anyone . Although you may need to salute when you join their army:
Should Pakistan ex-army chief lead Islamic military alliance? - BBC ...
www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-39525449
Apr 9, 2017 - ... Pakistani army General Raheel Sharif salutes as he inspects a military ...

Foxy - How many people do you bow or curtsy to every day, I suspect the answer is none so does that mean you do not respect anyone?

I don't but I have respect for others.

Foxy,

Stop it! If I find myself agreeing with you all the time, who will I have to argue with?