The definition of civilised
The conqueror is always more civilised than native inhabitants! The British in Australia encountered a peoples perceived as primitive because the accepted definition of civilised is based on the demonstrated ability to maim, kill, rape and enslave (physically or economically) on a large scale. The Australian First Nations people and the inhabitants of most colonised nations could not do that, hence minimum respect for their cultures.
Jimmy Carter once observed that for about 15 years in its history the US had not been involved in a war somewhere on the planet. It has exceptional abilities to kill on a large scale, or the ability and dedication to support slaughter and genocide by the sale of weapons, hence a grudging acceptance that the US is able to demand respect as the greatest civilisation ever known.
On the micro level, in society the use of foul language, aggressive behaviour both verbal and physical, temper tantrums and disrespect are accepted as signs of strength while good manners, empathy, kindness and respect are treated as weaknesses. Killing or maiming others who have a limited ability to defend themselves is marketed as a manly pursuit.
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