University of Virginia Library

Psychological Nonsense

The state of separation between the sexes
which now exists at U.Va. for undergraduates
undoubtedly once made psychological sense. I
am inclined to think that it essentially makes
psychological nonsense today. In so stating my
position I wish to indicate that I am fully aware
of the likely costs, confusion and pain that
accrue to any change of this magnitude. However,
I deem the long run values to be worth it.

The most meaningful changes that intelligent
coeducation can bring to U.Va. are the
reduction of mythical concepts surrounding
masculinity and the increased opportunity for
young men (and women) to develop secure,
accurate images of themselves (relatively devoid
of self-deception) as they explore relationships
over extended periods of time. It is a marvelous
stroke of luck that the College is also currently
examining its goals and curriculum, for the
success of coeducation is closely tied to the
processes and content of academic offerings.

I have always assumed that masculinity
could best be understood, appreciated, and
affirmed when healthy examples of femininity
were available for comparison. In such a setting
the unique and the complementary aspects of
each identification could be worked out
through normal explorations which would
move at mutually agreeable pace. Frantic weekend
body grabbing in an alcoholic haze would
not cease, but its shallowness would become
strikingly evident when more satisfying alternatives
are available.