Not only does the pledge's emphasis on serving the world fit with many universities' missions, but it meshes with psychology's mission of advancing human welfare, says Wollman. He believes that's reason enough for psychology departments to promote the pledge. In a larger institution, the effort can start in the psychology department, then spread, he says. Or, if the college is small enough, faculty or psychology students can recruit others to make the pledge college-wide. Wash. They've brought in two other students, an English and politics major, to organize a pledge program for the college's 300 graduating seniors.
Some students complain, however, that the pledge imposes a liberal agenda.
People who pledge aren't obligated to comply and aren't compelled to work for well-intentioned nonprofits. They could promote issues such as diversity and fair treatment of employees at any company they work for, says Wollman. A few schools Wollman has contacted say their students don't need a pledge. They say employer responsibility is something their students consider on their own. But Wollman believes students are significantly more likely to carry out a public commitment than a private one.