The History of Honorary Degrees

If you have landed this post, there are 2 facts that you will connect with most probably - one is that you want to get an honorary doctorate in a specific subject and second that you are interested about the history of honorary degrees.

Well, the ideal part is, even if you resonate with either one of them, this post will clear all your doubts till you reach the end. Let’s begin without wasting any further time!

Introduction

Before we dive into knowing about the history of honorary degrees, let us ensure that you are clear about what they are (however, we are 99% sure that you already know.)

So, an honorary doctorate is simply a prestigious academic award that is extended to certain individuals who have carried out exceptional contributions to society.

Unlike conventional degrees, honorary doctorates are not earned by means of coursework or research but are conferred as a tag of differentiation.

Be it science, literature, politics, media, or social reform, honorary degrees recognize achievements in different areas.

But when and where did an honorary doctorate originate? How has an honorary doctorate evolved over the years?

Now, let’s dive into exploring those fascinating portions of the history of honorary PhDs. Let’s trace the roots of honorary degrees from medieval Europe to the modern-day global stage.

Origins of Honorary Degrees

All of it started back in medieval Europe when universities started sanctioning academic honors to unique figures.

The very first concept of honorary degree that was recorded was awarded by Oxford University in 1478.

This degree was extended not for academic merit but as a symbolic gesture of respect and recognition.

Throughout this time frame, universities were closely connected with religious and royal institutions.

Honorary degrees turned into a tool for powering up the connection between scholars and influential leaders, often catering to diplomatic or political goals.

Development During the Renaissance and Enlightenment

But, how did it further get developed? Well, in the Renaissance (that is to say from the 14th to 17th century), a renewed emphasis on education, philosophy, and scientific findings was brought up.

This powerful cum intellectual movement influenced universities to take honorary degrees more than royalty and clergy to comprise scholars, artists, and philosophers.

Even in the Enlightenment era (that is to say from the 17th to 18th century), the trend stayed in continuity, with universities taking note of thinkers, political leaders, and scientists who extended their contribution to human knowledge and development.

But, when the 18th century started surpassing, things got changed. How? Let’s figure out further!

Honorary Degrees in the 18th and 19th Centuries

So, the 18th and 19th centuries witnessed a very notable development in honorary degrees, particularly in the region of the United States and colonial academic institutions.

Because the number of universities was rising very fast and with prestige, they began rewarding the respective writers, scientists, social reformers, and political figures with honorary PhDs.

Famous figures who received honorary degrees during this era

However, there were several but these 3 made it to the most popular list who received honorary degrees during this era. Their names are stated below:

• Benjamin Franklin - He was honored for his contributions to the science and diplomacy subjects.
• Frederick Douglass - He was recognized for his impact on social justice and abolitionism subjects.
• Charles Darwin - He was recognized for his ground breaking work and its impact on the evolutionary biology subject.

Throughout this whole period, honorary degrees turned into a notable symbol of international recognition. Furthermore, it turned into a bridge that removed the gap between academia and society.

But, of course, we are currently in the 21st century, so it didn’t stop in the 19th century, there was more to be adopted by the world and developed in the honorary degrees.

20th-Century Growth and Global Acceptance

By the 20th century, honorary degrees had spread beyond Europe and North America, becoming the traditional scene around the globe.

Varying universities across the globe started awarding individuals with honorary doctorate degrees from distinct backgrounds.

For example:

• Business leaders - Such individuals were recognized for their contributions across the economic and corporate areas.
• Artists and musicians - They were rewarded with honorary doctorates as a celebration for their contribution and impact in the cultural and creative zone.
• Activists and humanitarians - Such individuals were honored for their great impact in society and the positive change took place thanks to them.

Honorary PhDs also turned out to be a tool for diplomatic relations which powered up the relations between different nations by means of academic recognition.

In addition to this, institutions with a strategic approach, also awarded honorary doctorates to influential international figures that were aimed to power up the goodwill and intellectual exchange.

Controversies and Changes in the Late 20th and 21st Centuries

As honorary degrees became a more widespread thing by the last 20th century, well, several controversies started coming up in relation to their credibility.

Respective critics brought their argument to the table that there are a few universities that awarded honorary doctorates deciding one’s wealth, political influence, or public relations rather than the actual merit one has.

• Canceled degrees - Many universities took back the honorary PhDs from individuals who were involved in some sort of scams.
• Questionable recipients - Several celebrities, politicians, and highly influential professionals were receiving degrees without even having any academic contributions.
• Online and non-traditional institutions - The spike in the rise of honorary doctorates from less-established organizations sparked debates on the legitimacy of such degrees.

However, even after centuries today, even after such challenges, honorary degrees have made themselves relevant and a substantial academic tradition, constantly evolving to sustain the same viz. their prestige and relevance.

The Future of Honorary Degrees in Historical Context

Talking about its future, there are still chances that honorary degrees will likely continue the adaptation to the evolving landscape of education and society.

These are the main trends that might make this fact take place in reality:

• Greater emphasis on real contributions - Universities may concentrate more on rewarding honorary degrees on the basis of proven achievements.
• Inclusivity and diversity - Leaders from non-traditional backgrounds and underrepresented zones can be recognized and awarded.
• Robust ethical standards - Transparency can go further to ensure the upholding of credibility during the selection process.

Now, since universities are trying to balance tradition with modern values, the honorary PhD will remain a powerful way to honor excellence throughout disciplines.

Earn a Prestigious Honorary Doctorate from Eduminds Learning!

Congratulations! If you are here, most probably, you are the rare breed of those individuals who know the history of honorary degrees.

As we said at the starting of this blog, you will get two things by the end of this blog viz. complete history about honorary degrees and the best honorary degree relevant for you.

So, now, if you wish to get an honorary doctorate that truly reflects your influence and achievements, well, your look for the right guide ends here today.

Eduminds Learning stands out to be the leading global institution offering prestigious honorary PhDs across varying fields. Some of the top ones are listed below:

• Doctor of Philosophy in Media Communication – You will be awarded for your excellence in media innovation and strategy.
• Doctor of Philosophy in Counseling Psychology – You will be honored with respect to your contributions across mental health and therapy zones.
• Doctor of Philosophy in Human Arts – Your achievements will be celebrated in cultural studies and creative expression.
• Doctor of Philosophy in Fine Arts – You will be awarded for artistic innovation and cultural impact.
• Doctor of Philosophy in Music – You will be recognized for your outstanding contributions to music and performance.
• Doctor of Philosophy in Social Work – You will be honored for your great leadership in social change and growth.
• Doctor of Theology – Your profound contributions to the theological subject will be celebrated.

So, in a nutshell, with a rich history behind honorary PhDs, you can now turn yourself into a part of this legacy and earn a degree that you deserve, that reflects your real dedication and influence.

Wait no more and contact us today to apply for it at Eduminds Learning!