Relationships between university professors and students: Should they be banned?. Issue 2 (4th May 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: McArthur, Neil
• Is Part Of: Ethics and education. Volume 12:Issue 2(2017)
• Page Start: 129
• Page End: 140
• Publication Date: 2017-05-04
• Subjects: Professor–student relationships -- sexual liberty -- sexual ethics; Education -- Moral and ethical aspects -- Periodicals; Education -- Aims and objectives -- Periodicals; Education -- Philosophy -- Periodicals; Moral education -- Periodicals; 370.1
• DOI: 10.1080/17449642.2017.1293922
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1744-9642

Abstract

Abstract: This article examines the question of whether universities and colleges should attempt to ban all student-faculty relationships, as many have tried to do. It argues that, because adults have a fundamental right to engage in intimate relationships without interference, supporters of relationship bans must meet a high standard in defending them. But outright bans on such relationships cannot meet this standard. Though the desire to create a secure environment for students is legitimate and important, it cannot be shown that relationship bans are necessary or proportional means of doing so. Besides being a violation of the rights of the people involved, relationship bans have a negative impact on the larger university community. The argument is not a defense of such relationships per se. Romantic interactions between students and faculty are invariably complicated and perilous, and should be approached with caution.