Too many titles

sir – You report (September 8) on an academic who objected to being addressed as “Miss” instead of “Doctor”, though it is unclear whether she is medically qualified or a PHD.

Now that nearly half of school leavers proceed to universities, and about 90 per cent gain firsts or upper seconds, there has been an explosion of those gaining Phds. The titles of “Doctor” and “Professor” are becoming commonplace.

Our society, which plays lip service to equality, should expunge the use of titles, from Doctor to Duke. Media interviewers often address people by their first name and surname, which is neutral and attractive. There is also an opportunity to adopt the American practice of using “Sir” and “Madam” without irony.

Adrian Crisp

Weston Colville, Cambridgeshire