Understanding the Myth of the 'Street PhD' in Political Science

Within the realm of academic discourse, phrases like 'street PhD' or 'school of hard knocks' sometimes emerge as a placeholder for unqualified individuals who lack formal education. These terms are often used to dismiss or belittle individuals who have not completed traditional academic programs. But is there any truth to the idea that someone can obtain a PhD without formal education? This article aims to clarify the myth of the 'street PhD' in political science and the merit of formal academic qualifications.

The Notion of 'Street Wisdom'

It is important to recognize that no one can claim to have a 'street PhD.' The concept itself is a colloquialism without academic substance or legitimacy. People who dismiss formal education often parade language like 'street smarts' or 'common sense' to bolster their self-esteem or to imply superiority over formally educated individuals. However, these terms are often misused to mask a lack of genuine knowledge and exposure to rigorous academic methodologies.

The Misunderstood Value of Life Experience

While life experience and practical knowledge are indeed valuable, they should not be confused with formal academic credentials. Every individual, regardless of their education, undergoes the lessons of life. However, formal education helps individuals learn critical skills and methodologies to delve deeper into subjects and research effectively. Degrees, particularly in specific fields such as political science, are not mere badges of honor but represent a systematic and structured learning process.

The Ladder of Unqualified Street Degrees

The concept of 'street degrees' is rooted in the notion of inferiority and often includes:

B.S. (Bachelor of Science): A basic step but still claims a superficial level of knowledge. M.S. (Master of Science): More advanced but still lacks the formal academic rigor and qualifications. Ph.D. (Doctor of Philosophy): The highest of these imagined degrees, a 'street PhD' suggests a high level of expertise and knowledge.

However, these 'street degrees' are not recognized or accredited by any formal institution. They lack the methodologies, peer reviews, and comprehensive research processes that are integral to formal Ph.D. programs. Even the most independent research cannot achieve the depth and qualifications that formal education allows.

The Reality of Informal vs. Formal Learning

While individuals can gain valuable insights and practical skills through experience, formal education provides a structured framework to:

Learn critical thinking and analytical skills. Conduct rigorous research and analysis. Apply learned knowledge in real-world scenarios.

Companies that require degrees for certain roles prioritize formal qualifications because they recognize the systematic and standardized methodologies that formal education provides. A simple 'street PhD' does not meet these stringent requirements and would likely fail any formal evaluation process.

Conclusion

In summary, while life experience and practical knowledge are highly valued, they cannot substitute for formal academic credentials like the Ph.D. Each step in an individual's path to knowledge and expertise is important, but they must be recognized as such. The term 'street PhD' is a meaningless colloquialism used to dismiss formal education and academic achievements. Instead, individuals should seek to build their qualifications through genuine academic pursuits to enhance their understanding and contribute meaningfully to their fields of study.