Full Idea
Respect ...is to be understood as the maxim of limiting our self-esteem by the dignity of humanity in another person.
Gist of Idea
Respect is limiting our self-esteem by attending to the human dignity of other persons
Source
Immanuel Kant (Metaphysics of Morals II:Doctrine of Virtue [1797], 449 I.II)
Book Reference
Kant,Immanuel: 'The Metaphysics of Morals', ed/tr. Gregor,Mary [CUP 1991], p.244
A Reaction
I can't see any direct connection between my own self-esteem and my respect for others, though in practice great vanity makes us neglect others. I also don't find the concept of 'dignity' very helpful. I think we should respect plants.