When I first got my Ph.D., I did throw the Dr. thing on quite a bit of things (so did my parents, naturally). I rarely use it unless professionally. If people are listed as Joe Schmoe M.D., then I expect to be listed as driscj Ph.D. In professional listings I prefer using the degree notations rather than the Dr. It gives you a better sense of ones educational background and experiences.

But before we get into the professional version of a coke versus pepsi debate, Ph.D. are most certainly correctly referred to as Dr.'s as they see fit. May help you with dinner reservations but calling yourself Dr. will certainly not help the next time you are negotiating a car price.

As I get older, I give less of a rat's a** about it. My work and reputation speak more about me to colleagues than the particular way I choose an honorific.

Whatever you do...never, *ever* do the cheesiest thing (seen on the news all the time) which is Dr. Joe Schmoe M.D.

It bugs me like 'RSVP Please' does.