Cheating in college is commonplace. In a survey of 300 students from both public and private universities, including online programs, 86 percent responded that they had cheated in school, with 54 percent indicating that cheating “was OK” and even necessary to stay competitive. Mobile devices play a part, as 72 percent reported using their phone, tablet, or computer to cheat in class.

Questions

1. How might the college admissions scandal described above encourage unethical conduct among college students, such as cheating? Explain.
2. The New York Times columnist David Brooks laments the “careerist tide” in higher education:
Universities are more professional and glittering than ever, but in some ways there is emptiness deep down. Students are taught how to do things, but many are not forced to reflect on why they should do them or what we are here for. They are given many career options, but they are on their own when it comes to developing criteria to determine which vocation would lead to the fullest life. Do you think your education should include more attention to providing guidance in determining a career path most likely to produce, for you, the “fullest life”? How do you think that could that be accomplished? Explain.