Introduction to the Doctorate Title

The term 'doctor' often conjures up images of medical practitioners, leading many to believe that the title 'doctor' is reserved exclusively for medical doctors (MDs). However, this is not always the case. Individuals holding a doctorate degree, but not a medical doctorate, can also be referred to as 'doctor.' This article explores the nuances of the title 'doctor' and who can legally and appropriately use it.

Understanding Doctorate Degrees

A person who has a doctorate degree but is not a medical doctor is typically referred to as having a doctorate degree. The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is the highest level of a doctor's degree, often seen in fields such as academia, research, and scientific pursuits. The Doctor of Medicine (MD), on the other hand, is a professional degree awarded to medical practitioners and is a much lower level in terms of breadth and depth of study.

Despite the differences in the nature and level of these degrees, the term 'doctor' is often used interchangeably by individuals holding these qualifications. This is because the title 'doctor' is not strictly defined by the field of study but rather by the level of education and research conducted. In many cases, those with doctorate degrees from non-medical fields might choose to use the title 'doctor,' especially in professional settings or when engaging with academic or research communities.

Professional and Personal Use of the Title

It's important to note that while individuals with doctorate degrees often have the right to be called 'doctor,' they are not required to do so. Many professionals with doctorate degrees, such as psychologists, dentists, or engineers, might not use their titles in everyday life. For instance, the author mentions having two friends with medical degrees who never bothered to get licensed and still choose not to use their titles in casual settings. Similarly, their wife, a licensed psychologist, also does not practice and therefore does not use her title outside of professional settings.

Even medical doctors (MDs) might continue to be referred to as 'doctor' by the public even after retirement, as seen in the case of the author's father, who was still called 'doctor' long after he retired. This indicates that the title 'doctor' is more about the level of education received and the extent of research conducted, rather than current employment.

Formality and Conventions

The use of the title 'doctor' varies in formality across different professional and social settings. While it is common for individuals with PhDs to use the title, especially in academic and research circles, the use of the title in corporate jobs is less common. The level of formality can also depend on the field of study and the type of degree. For example, a master's degree (MA, MBA, MSc, etc.) might not offer the same professional recognition as a PhD, although it still represents a high level of education.

Despite these differences, the essence of the title 'doctor' remains the same: it signifies a high level of education and research. This is exemplified by the case of Dr. Jill Biden, who holds a PhD in education and uses the title 'dr.' even though her work does not center around a medical field.

In conclusion, the title 'doctor' can be used by individuals with a doctorate degree, regardless of the field of study or current employment. It is a testament to the rigorous education and research involved in obtaining such a degree. Whether one chooses to use the title or not, it remains a significant academic achievement.

Conclusion

The question of whether a person holding a doctorate degree, but not a medical degree, can be referred to as a 'doctor' is more about the level of education and research they have conducted rather than their current profession. The title 'doctor' is a versatile recognition of scholarly and professional achievement, spanning a wide range of fields beyond medicine.