University of Virginia Library

Death Of Honor

Although I disagree with Mr.
Lind in his condemnation of coeducation
of Virginia (February 6),
his expressed concern for the welfare
of the University is commendable.

In his article he thought that
admitting women here would be
the death sentence for our unique
tradition, the honor system. But, I
feel, he has underrated the student
body in claiming that it would
choose chivalry over duty. If, as he
says, it is too apathetic to uphold
the honor code in mixed company,
then students do not deserve the
modern luxury of being trusted
when taking quizzes, etc. And if the
code cannot withstand the pressure
of admitting women then it is
certainly too fragile to be effective
among us for any length of time.

I propose that we find out just
how strong it is and how much
respect it draws from the students,
and accept the outcome. Admit
women and see if the honor system
is strengthened, which would enhance
our own pride in it; or is
destroyed, which would be preferable
over the existence of an
impotent one. Either full con
fidence must be placed in our
honor system and have it flourish,
or other modes of self government
should be sought.

Mr. Lind was correct in urging
caution as the University proceeds
to become more liberal. The establishment
of a "'State-U"' would
greatly disturb those of us who
choose Virginia on its unicality. But
the admittance of women would
not necessarily create a "megaversity"
out of Virginia. Adherence
to a selective process similar to that
used in evaluating male applicants
would retain the quality of thought
at the University. Virginia cannot
remain restricted in its service to a
few, qualified white men; but must
expand to achieve a more free and
open atmosphere which Mr. Jefferson
expected of a "true" university.

Then I recommend that the
Board of Visitors serious consider
opening the University to women
and strengthen our place of learning.