The Law Profession on Trial: Hallmarks of a Profession

Professions and Professionals
Name
Institutional Affiliation Professions and Professionals
Definition of a Profession
A profession in the sociological perspective is defined as an occupation based on a specific knowledge mastered, which in turn distinguishes the various kinds of occupations. Four hallmarks help in understanding professions (Hodson & Sullivan, 2012).
Hallmarks of a profession
Specialized knowledge. The type of knowledge learned, identifies one profession from another. An ordinary person easily understands common knowledge, whereas professionals alone understand complex or specific knowledge (Hodson & Sullivan, 2012).
Autonomy. Refers to the tendency of a professional to be self-reliant in deciding on the required knowledge to solve a particular problem. Ordinary people trust the professional’s judgment, hence requiring them to be accountable in their undertakings (Hodson & Sullivan, 2012).
Authority. Due to the mastery of knowledge pertaining a particular subject, they exercise the authority to advise clients on how to handle situations under their jurisdiction (Hodson & Sullivan, 2012).
Altruism. Refers to the ability of professionals to use their knowledge for the good of the public, and guided by the codes and ethics binding them (Hodson & Sullivan, 2012).
Advertisements and Professions
Advertisements play a great role in the understanding of a particular profession. Repeated exposures by the media about a particular profession and their roles, whether right or wrong makes people bel...