Are Honorary Degrees Honorable?

What is an honorary degree?

Honorary degrees should be conferred with discernment, not granted as mere accolades or easily obtained distinctions. They are significant markers that reflect an individual's contributions to society. These awards celebrate exceptional work in areas like philanthropy, leadership, and the arts without the recipient having to complete traditional academic programs.

This offering raises important questions about how to utilize these degrees appropriately and the ethical implications of their misuse. In this blog post, we'll explore how to honor an honorary degree, the risks tied to its misuse, and the responsibilities that come with this type of recognition.

Can you use the title' doctor with an honorary degree/award?

No. An honorary degree is an award, not an earned degree. It is a symbolic recognition, and using the title “Doctor” without academic completion can ultimately damage one’s credibility.

Consider this: if you received an award at work for Team Member of the Year, would you then change your social media pages to read “Team Member of the Year John Doe”? Furthermore, would you expect people to address you in everyday conversation with that title, “Hello, how are you, Team Member of the Year John Doe?”

That would feel both excessive and unnatural. Yet this is precisely what has occurred with honorary degrees, and the practice has spiraled far beyond its intended purpose.

So, do titles matter?

Yes! Titles do matter. I find it strange when I hear someone say they don't. But what matters even more is character. If someone's claiming a title that hadn't been earned, they've already compromised their character.

• Jesus warns against elevating titles above humility and service (Matthew 23:8–12).

• Titles without integrity can lead to hypocrisy and judgment (Luke 20:46–47).

• God values inner character above outward honor or recognition (1 Samuel 16:7).

Understanding Honorary Degrees

Honorary degrees are symbolic awards granted by educational institutions to individuals who have made meaningful contributions across various fields. For example, Oprah Winfrey received 4 honorary doctorates. So have other celebrities. Some of those same celebrities have revoked honorary degrees.

Yes, an honorary degree can be revoked because it's an award, not an earned degree. However, a rightfully earned degree cannot be revoked.

The key difference between earned and honorary degrees is important. An earned degree involves actual academic work, requiring years of study and commitment. In contrast, an honorary degree recognizes a person's broader impact on society without any coursework or academic testing.

A prestigious university campus where honorary degrees are awarded

Earned Degrees vs. Honorary Degrees

Earned Degree

• Demands extensive study, along with research and exams.

• Represents a high level of mastery in a specific discipline.

• It is recognized in professional, legal, and academic contexts.

  
  

Honorary Degree

• Awarded based on significant societal or cultural contributions.

• Symbolizes recognition, not academic achievement.

• Cannot be used as an academic qualification.

  
  

Understanding these differences is essential for anyone honored with an honorary degree. It's a recognition of work done, not a replacement for qualifications needed in professional contexts.

Unhonourable Honorary Degrees

Unfortunately, the rise of unaccredited or accredited organizations handing out honorary degrees for questionable reasons poses a threat to their integrity. Many people are paying for honorary degrees to small, unaccredited, and accredited organizations. Such purchases often indicate a desire for status rather than genuine accomplishment.

These transactions exploit aspirations and can dilute the respect for true academic awards. Individuals purchasing titles may find themselves facing scrutiny and revealing their lack of genuine achievement.

A diploma showcasing an honorary degree with a gold seal

Legal and Ethical Ramifications

Misrepresenting an honorary degree can lead to misleading situations and pose legal challenges. For instance, in states like Texas and Florida, claiming an honorary degree as an earned qualification can result in significant penalties, including fines.

Approaching the use of an honorary degree with honesty is necessary. Misrepresentation can lead to reputational damage not just for the individual but also for the institutions that awarded these degrees. Trust is essential in maintaining both personal and institutional credibility.

How to Use an Honorary Degree Appropriately

Acknowledge the Honor

When you receive an honorary degree, it is important to celebrate and acknowledge it appropriately. This distinction reflects your contributions to society and deserves recognition. Including it in your biography or CV is perfectly acceptable, provided it is made clear that the degree is honorary.

For example, writing “John Doe, Honorary Doctor of Arts, University of XYZ” maintains both transparency and respect for the award. However, an honorary degree should never be listed under “Education” on a résumé; instead, it belongs in the “Awards” or “Honors” section.

Avoid Misrepresentation

It is essential to avoid misrepresenting an honorary degree. Using the title “Dr.” in a way that implies completion of a traditional doctoral program can create confusion and ultimately harm your credibility. Unfortunately, I have witnessed individuals receive an honorary degree and then fraudulently adopt the “Dr.” title, which misleads others and undermines the true value of academic achievement.

Instead, convey the honorary nature of the title by stating, “I was honored to receive an honorary doctorate from XYZ University for my work in the arts.” This respects both the award and your integrity.

Promote Integrity and Ethics

With an honorary degree comes the responsibility to uphold integrity in your actions. Use the recognition to inspire others, engage in community service, or advocate for meaningful causes. This not only amplifies the importance of your degree but also demonstrates your commitment to improving society.

Honorary degrees should be viewed as honors and not as substitutes for professional qualifications. By respecting this distinction, we support the value of earned degrees and the integrity of academic institutions.

Encouraging Ethical Behavior

Recipients of honorary degrees have an opportunity to model ethical behavior for others. By responsibly using these honors, we can inspire upcoming generations to pursue their interests with integrity and dedication. Participation in discussions about ethical standards in our fields can further promote this culture of accountability.

In navigating the complexities of honorary degrees, let’s remember they are more than titles; they symbolize our commitment to making a difference in the world.