Do You Think People Who Have Earned Doctorate Degrees Are Treated Better in Society Than Others Who Have Not?

Question

The reason why I ask is because I personally noticed if I use the title "Dr." in front of my name (whether stated or written), people tend to treat me better or differently (with more patience and respect) versus if I don't use the title. I truly did earn it but wonder how some people view this. What are some of your opinions? Thanks!

Answer 1

I would personally treat you better if you didn't use it in everyday life.

I think things like that are overused too much. Many people think they deserve extra respect in society just because they have some degree (whether it be J.D., M.D. or Ph.D)..

I have been told from an M.D. that he doesn't use it because it causes the assumption that he is rich, and thus could be taken advantage of in terms of lawsuits, etc.

If you use it in your field, then you will get more respect.. However if you use it outside of your field (such as at the grocery store), I would think you would get less respect than if you left it off..

Answer 2

I think for the average person, you will probably get more respect using the title.

For me, I know more than my share of idiots who somehow made it throught the process (spend 10 years at anything and eventually you'll stumble through), so title alone means nothing.

Answer 3

If you use the "Dr." in front of your name and you're not a medical doctor, many people actually think you're trying to be conceited and put yourself on an equal social footing as a medical doctor. I also think the doctorate shows you've spent a large amount of time not doing practical work and just being isolated doing research, and that also doesn't earn too much respect.