Is Respect Earned or is it the Default?

I had a discussion with a client a few days ago regarding respect. Is respect earned or is disrespect earned? In my experience as a supervisor and leader and now as a coach, I have found that treating everyone with respect is the best practice. No need to earn it first. As one of my mentors once told me, “Take the high road, there is less traffic there”. Even in our daily journey through life there is enough basic respect to go around, no need to ration it. When respect is no longer served at the table it’s time to leave. Respect is the default. Learn to get along with others. Communication is key here especially in your role as a leader. Your thoughts?