Are Honorary Doctorates Entitled to Use the 'Dr.' Title?

The use of the prefix 'Dr.' has long been a symbol of academic distinction and recognition. While many individuals aspire to earn a regular Ph.D. through rigorous academic pursuits, some individuals receive honorary doctorates for their significant contributions to society. However, the question often arises whether those with honorary doctorates are entitled to use the 'Dr.' title, traditionally reserved for those who have earned a regular Ph.D.

Understanding Honorary Doctorates

An honorary doctorate is a prestigious honor granted by universities to individuals who have made substantial contributions in fields such as arts, writing, showbusiness, sports, industry, or politics. These individuals are typically recognized for their public service, philanthropic activities, or innovative ideas that have had a positive impact on society.

The process of earning an honorary doctorate usually involves nomination and approval by the university, whereas a regular Ph.D. is achieved through years of intensive study, research, and the successful defense of a dissertation. Although both titles are esteemed, they represent different criteria and processes.

The Significance of an Honorary Doctorate

An honorary doctorate is a recognition of a person's overall contributions and influence, often beyond traditional academic research. It symbolizes the respect and honor bestowed upon individuals who have made significant contributions to society, regardless of their educational background.

Despite the prestige of an honorary doctorate, it is important to note that it is not equivalent to a regular Ph.D. Each title represents a distinct path and form of recognition, with different implications for a person's career and expertise.

The Use of the 'Dr.' Title

Strictly speaking, the use of the 'Dr.' title for those with honorary doctorates is not appropriate. The correct pre-nominal for an honorary degree is 'Dr.h.c.' (Doctor honoris causa), though this designation is rarely seen in practice. More commonly, individuals are referred to using appropriate post-nominal initials, such as:

Jane Doe LLD (Doctor of Laws) John Smith DD (Doctor of Divinity) John Doe HonD (Honorary Doctorate)

There are instances where individuals with honorary doctorates can be referred to as 'Dr.' if they also have earned a regular Ph.D. However, the primary use of the 'Dr.' title is still reserved for those who have earned a doctoral degree through conventional academic means.

Conclusion

In summary, while honorary doctorates are prestigious and meaningful awards, they do not entitle the recipients to use the 'Dr.' title. The suffix 'Dr.h.c.' is the correct form but is rarely used. Instead, individuals with honorary doctorates are better recognized using appropriate post-nominal initials, thereby distinguishing their achievement from that of a regular Ph.D.