[leephillips]

Nobody is being an elitist or scoffing at anyone. The phrase “earned degree” has a particular meaning: it means “not honorary”. I think honorary degrees are great. But they are what they are. The convention is not to use the title “Dr.” on the basis of an honorary degree. That‘s it. Stallman is a legend, and obviously has no need of titles.

[jack9]

> The phrase “earned degree” has a particular meaning: it means “not honorary”

Maybe you meant academic degree.

> But they are what they are.

Still not clear on what that means. Recognition of expertise? They are that.

> The convention is not to use the title “Dr.” on the basis of an honorary degree

Again, by those aforementioned.

[leephillips]

I meant exactly what I typed. As I just informed you, the phrase has a well-established meaning.

[jack9]

> As I just informed you

I think you have a flawed set of beliefs. Good luck with whatever.

[Brian_K_White]

What exactly are they that they are? Not earned? I bet there are more un-earned regular degrees than honorary.

[jack9]

Indeed, honorary degrees are earned. The accreditation process differs for every individual, at a micro level and for individuals across organizations (and time and discipline, et al) at a macro level. The idea that a degree is "earned" based on a lack of the "honorary" descriptor belies a bias of ignorance, at best.