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Yes, PhD = "doctor." That's what the "D" is actually for. PhD is shortened from philosophiae doctor, meaning "doctor of philosophy." Anyone who holds a legit
by pmiller2 6y ago
Yes, PhD = "doctor." That's what the "D" is actually for. PhD is shortened from philosophiae doctor, meaning "doctor of philosophy." Anyone who holds a legitimate PhD can use the title "doctor," and, if they so desire, ask people to call them "doctor" legitimately.
- skissane 6y agoYes, I agree it is okay to address people with doctorates (including PhD) by the term "doctor", at least in certain contexts. But my question was about "professor" though, not "doctor". You say you wouldn't call a grad student instructor a "professor", but what about an instructor with a PhD (but without any formal academic title of "professor")?
- pmiller2 6y agoI would say that depends more on the culture of the institution than anything. "Professor" is acceptable at some places, first name is the norm at others, and "Mr./Mrs./Ms." at still others. When I was a grad student, I made a point when introducing myself on day 1 that I was not a professor, so please don't call me "Professor Pmiller2" Then, I said something about "if you call me "Mr. Pmiller2," I'm going to wonder if my dad is standing behind me, so, please just call me "$FIRSTNAME." That was pretty much the standard where I was among people in my department (grad students = first names).