The value of tolerance on the part of teachers, as discussed in the
preceding chapter, is plainly seen in this connection. Unless a
teacher's manner toward a pupil indicates a high degree of respect,
the pupil's respect for himself is in danger of being weakened. A
sarcastic attitude is even worse than a dogmatic one; beyond doubt,
the proper self-esteem of many a young person has been permanently
undermined by his teacher's sharp tongue; sarcasm is the extreme of
intolerance.

_1. The relation between teachers and students._

There should be a clearer understanding, too, about the function of
teachers in general. Many instructors give the impression that
educational institutions exist for their benefit, rather than for the
good of their students; and from the start the latter are forced into
the position of suppliants. If questions are asked, impatience is
shown; and if objections to statements are raised, impertinence is
charged. Such treatment tends to cow the average student and thus to
limit his power to react upon ideas.

While teachers may be real authorities in subject-matter, they can
never be anything more than assistants in the self-development of
their students. They should more openly assume this subordinate
position, placing the primary responsibility upon the learner; they
would then be less likely to subordinate the inner growth of the
student, which it is their highest function to aid, to the mere
acquisition of knowledge.

If, however, teachers practically compel subservience by an arrogant