Teacher Ethics
Teachers can transmit genuine insight. They can also exploit devotion. Discernment protects both student and tradition.
Healthy signs
Section titled “Healthy signs”- Clear boundaries around money, sex, and secrecy
- Accountability to peers or boards
- Encouragement of critical thinking
- Support for students’ outside therapists or lifelines
- Willingness to apologize and repair
Warning signs
Section titled “Warning signs”- Special rules that exempt the teacher
- Isolation from family or former friends
- Sexual access framed as teaching
- Punishment for questions or dissent
- Claims of enlightenment used to end discussion
Questions to ask
Section titled “Questions to ask”- How are finances handled?
- What happens when a student disagrees?
- Is there a grievance process?
- Are psychological crises taken seriously?
- Who monitors the teacher’s power?