Since early 2000’s, the number of professors who want to enter politics has increased rapidly. They are called “polifessors,” a term that combines the words “politics” and “professor.” I am against the polifessor, and there are some important reasons why it is a serious problem.
    First of all, the main roles of a professor lie in both teaching and research. If professors neglect their teaching and research, it will cause the infringement of the right for students to be educated. To be more specific, polifessors frequently cancel their classes, or take time off to prepare for the elections ahead. Then, part-time lecturers or even video lectures will fill their vacancies. I fear that a deterioration in the quality of teaching is quite obvious.
    I believe professors can take part in the policy-making process. They don’t have to be politicians. Some people say that “polifessors” should be allowed to apply their professionalism to politics and administration. But, we need to distinguish between "public intellectual" and "polifessor.” “Polifessors” use his or her social status as a means to become a lawmaker. Whereas professors can get involved in policy-making process as public intellectuals. For example, professors can offer advice and suggestion when they are requested from government. Professors are able to voice their views about politics and be opinion leaders. But, the last thing that I want to see is “polifessors” who neglect their duties as stewards of the university.

 

By Kim Ji-yeon, Junior
Dept. of Public Administration

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