Subject: Concern About Inappropriate Behavior from a Professor
Hey everyone,
I’m currently attending college (20M) and my friend (20F) has been experiencing some serious discomfort in her major class due to their professor’s behavior.
In this course on “Culture, Philosophy, and Aesthetics,” the professor assigned several books that are explicitly pornographic, and some of the content—especially the way women are discussed—raises significant red flags. This class has nothing to do with the material being presented. The professor, who is over 60, frequently discusses sex in a manner that makes many students, especially those who identify as female, feel uncomfortable.
What’s more troubling is that the professor holds a position of authority at our college, which seems to give him the freedom to act without any accountability. The books aren’t included in the standard reading list for the major, and the seminars are just as concerning; he makes inappropriate comments and even suggests students imagine graphic scenarios.
Additionally, he openly advocates for the use of LSD and shares his own experiences with drugs, suggesting that they are beneficial.
Considering our college shares a building with a primary school and young children are present in the cafeteria, I find it deeply unsettling to have such behavior happening so close to them.
We’re unsure about how to handle this situation. If anyone has similar experiences or advice on how to address this, it would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks for your input! This is happening in Germany, in case that’s relevant.
It sounds like your friend is in a really uncomfortable situation, and it’s understandable that both of you are concerned about what’s happening in that class. Here are a few points to consider:
Unprofessional Behavior: Professors are expected to maintain a professional environment. If a professor is discussing inappropriate topics that don’t relate to the course and makes students uncomfortable, it could be a violation of professional standards.
Reporting Concerns: Your friend (and you, if you feel comfortable) should consider reporting this behavior to someone in the college administration, such as a department head or an academic advisor. Most universities have procedures for addressing complaints about faculty conduct.
Support from Classmates: It might be helpful for your friend to talk to other classmates and see if they share similar feelings. If there are multiple students feeling uncomfortable, a collective report may have more impact.
Personal Boundaries: It’s important for anyone in a learning environment to feel safe. Inappropriate comments and behavior from a professor can create a toxic atmosphere and hinder the learning experience.
Cultural Context: Since this is happening in Germany, be aware that different countries may have different thresholds for what is considered acceptable behavior in academic settings. However, there are universal standards of professionalism and respect in education.
Seek Guidance: Your friend might also consider reaching out to a student advocacy group or a trusted faculty member who can provide advice and support.
Ultimately, ensuring a safe and respectful learning environment is crucial, and it’s important to address any behavior that seems out of line.