Story perspectives

Professor's Email Sparks Debate on Privacy and Public Emotions

2/4/2026

Summary

Story summary

A professor at a university is frustrated when a colleague enters her office without knocking, prompting an email.
The exchange hurt the colleague's feelings, and the professor seeks advice on how to assert privacy without embarrassing anyone.
Miss Manners recommends treating it as a teaching moment and suggests saying, "Please knock, as I might be occupied," to encourage personal space.
The discussion also addresses whether adults should cry in public.

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Story summary

A professor at a university is frustrated when a colleague enters her office without knocking, prompting an email.
The exchange hurt the colleague's feelings, and the professor seeks advice on how to assert privacy without embarrassing anyone.
Miss Manners recommends treating it as a teaching moment and suggests saying, "Please knock, as I might be occupied," to encourage personal space.
The discussion also addresses whether adults should cry in public.