2: Academic assholes and the circle or niceness

My career in academia is somewhat limited, but it does not surprise me to read about the attitudes of many, especially at the more senior level, in the field. The author links the prevalence of asshole-ness in academia to the want and need to appear more intelligent than others in order to achieve success. I do not believe this behaviour is limited to academia alone.

Mark Zuckerberg, Donald Trump, Steve Jobs – some names that come to mind in the corporate world, who built their fortune and fame screwing people over in the process. Even if we examine students at the elementary and high school level, in presentations and group environments, the loudest one in the room usually is the most recognized and listened to. It's an all around societal issue.

I do believe schools have the power to change society. As future educators, we should step in when we see this behaviour in our classrooms. As humans, we should step in when we see this behaviour occurring in our society. It is easier said then done, but it is necessary to improve.

-Ragu