Well I would suggest that the poor service is an effect of the strong unions . Clearly not the purpose . If you could be fired for not smiling all the time or talking back to a rude person yeah , reckon that's good motivation to smile and always be polite .
As far as respect with pilots in Asia compared to the states .... ah , free travel on most airlines ? Jump seating ? That's pretty respectful . Respect is maintaining my contract , not changing it when the company feels like it . If you want people to see you in awe becasue you are a pilot , cool man , that's your boat . Wear the shiney shiney hat . I would rather have a company respect my contract . Any way , different horses for different courses .