We own the thoughts we are taught by taking them in and making them ours with our own metaphors - relating them to our own lives in some way. I am convinced that fear in interpersonal relationships is never a positive thing. Macchiavelli would disagree. In his book, The Prince, he espoused inspiring fear rather than love. I don t think either is a good idea.
Students usually have a healthy respect for their professors.
And healthy respect isn t bought with titles. Respect is both given and earned. College students give respect to professors and then expect them to keep it or earn it, with their knowledge and teaching style. I don t want professors to feel the need for ego fortification any more than I want to feel intimidated. A rose by any other name would smell as sweet.