Sense of beautiful and good essential

It is difficult to understand why our society and especially our politicians tend to disparage the student body merely because at times there are some provocative student actions.

The short-lived independence of the Taj Mahal will no doubt provide some Cabinet Ministers with solid political reasons to oppose increased university spending.

But these gentlemen should know that the function of a university is not merely to give vocational training, but to equip men with the vital ability to invigorate a society so that it does not stagnate in its own complacency.

To do this a university should provide the opportunity to gain an acquaintance with a virile feeling for values. A crisp sense of the beautiful and the good is essential.

Failure to gain this means our time is largely wasted. All that remains is the certificate of a well-trained dog.

To analyse prejudices, scoff at false idols, and even to reject the most consoling belief where it conflicts with truth, are part of the process of education.

If students cease to be provocative then, it means either of two things: that God's Own Country hides no prejudices or false idols, or that students are failing in their most vital function. The former is most unlikely—perfection escapes us.

This leaves the latter. It is disturbing to reflect that we as a body do fail our society on too many occasions.

In an atmosphere where the student is surrounded by the collective wisdom of mankind, and at an age when set patterns of thought have not hindered the capacity to be receptive to criticism and new ideas, the student still largely remains an 'ordinary guy.' What expression he does arouse to is usually pathetic—like the Taj business.

Not that we advocate provocation for provocation's sake. All that is asked is a greater awareness of the dangers of acceptance, and a greater readiness to transmit sober thought into action and reflection into speech.

If we can do this, the fate of the trained canine will escape us.