I would agree that there are some valid points. In particular, with this sentiment.
"But collectively, they convey something very different: confidence. At their core is the belief, the faith really, in students' ability to do better. There is something to be said about a teacher who is demanding and tough not because he thinks students will never learn but because he is so absolutely certain that they will."
However, there is a notable difference between being tough, demanding and fair based on intelligent, well-thought out teaching practices designed to bring out potential and just being a tough, mean jerk who is focused on meaningless things.
