On being recused for conflict of interest against your will: a thread.

So someone has asked for you to be removed from their teaching evaluation/promotion review/whatever for a conflict of interest you feel is personal, minor, or irrelevant.

Your feelings are hurt. You think it's unfair. You think it's embarrassing.

Here's some things to keep in mind as you get over yourself.

First: The fact that you are being recused means that you are the one with the power. The person asking for you to be recused is afraid of how you will use that power.

Ask yourself: Would you abuse your power if you had not be recused? If not, why would you kick up a fuss now?

Perhaps you think this conflict of interest is minor, fictional, or invented.

Would you even want the appearance of participating in a review that could be questioned over that "conflict"?

And if the conflict is not real, here's your chance to prove it.

Don't get mad about the recusal. Use it as a chance to show how you are not taking it personally. You can work to include that person on committees or other work.

You might even offer to help review their self-statement or other material, as you will not be reviewing it.

Even if they turn you down, a sincere offer may mean something. (As long as you don't get offended about them declining or not responding.)

And finally -- you now have less work to do! Be happy! Get on with your scholarship or a hobby.

Stop being mad about stupid stuff. Seriously.

But note, there are some things you should NOT do.

Don't expect an explanation from the person who asks to recuse you. They don't need to justify anything to you.

Don't get mad at those who weren't recused. You are just making the case for your recusal more clear.