In recent times we have heard many cases of german politicians being caught in plagiarism of Ph.D. thesis, why are german politicians so eager to earn P.h.D at any cost, and what is the Academic integrity law in Germany?
If Lawmakers are breaking the law what can be expected of citizens?
India is not far behind, the incidence of fake P.hD. degrees and fake education certificates are common even in the Indian political circle.
Why do German politicians so often stumble over Ph.D. plagiarism allegations?
https://www.dw.com/en/why-do-german-politicians-so-often-stumble-over-phd-plagiarism-allegations/a-57651910
Why Are German Politicians Obsessed With PhD.s?
https://foreignpolicy.com/2021/02/04/germany-politics-higher-education-phd-merkel/
This is an interesting question and the two articles give good answers. The main reason is certainly the importance society attaches to the doctorate in Germany. You can see this in three facts: 1. The doctoral title is considered part of the name and can be entered into the identity card and passport together with the family name. Most people with a doctorate have this done. In official life (with authorities, at border controls, etc.) it increases the chance of being treated more respectfully. 2. Many people use the doctoral title in their form of address. In official written letters, the title is practically always used, and some also use it when addressing someone verbally: "Guten Tag, Herr Doktor X." ("Good day, Doctor X.") This is especially common among the older generation. It is slowly changing to more casual manners, but for many people it is still of great importance. 3. In business, a doctorate increases the chance of advancing to leading positions. This means that a doctorate is not only important in science.
Excellent reply, clearly explains the importance of doctorate degrees for Germans, but it would be even more respectful if it was earned ethically.
The comments by Dr Wolfgang R. Dick are very interesting about the regard given in Germany for people with the title "Dr". I wonder what it is like in other countries.
I wonder - and I realise that is not the main topic of this discussion - what is the relative regard for people with the title "Professor". Does that get used with you, Prof Gaurav H Tandon ?
Instead of pursuing a real Ph.D. degree, politicians can get an honorary doctorate degree for serving the nation, after all, if you buy a degree to increase your qualification and get caught in the process it brings more disgrace to your reputation.
What Is the Purpose of an Honorary Degree?
Honorary degrees are academic awards given by universities to individuals to recognize their exceptional contributions to society or lifetime achievement in their field
https://bestaccreditedcolleges.org/articles/whats-the-value-of-an-honorary-degree.html
Honorary degrees awarded to renowned leaders
https://www.newcastle.edu.au/newsroom/featured/honorary-degrees-awarded-to-renowned-leaders
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