ABSTRACT
College-level educators have traditionally enjoyed considerable autonomy and often work independently of one another. Yet, virtually all of us must have at least superficial relationships with our peers and other departmental and campus personnel. In what ways might loyalties or obligations, such as to a student on one hand and a colleague on the other, come into conflict? How can such conflicts be managed? This chapter depicts instances of overheated personal or professional disputes as well as faculty who refuse to participate with their peers on committees or other group tasks. Additional cases cover triangles involving two instructors and a student, being privy to information about unethical or embarrassing behavior by a colleague, and allowing stereotypes and biases to color our personal views of colleagues. As shown elsewhere in this casebook, the fallout from ethical problems like these is unpredictable and can radiate from the immediate situation to cause damage to others.
