TOWARDS THE BEGINNING OF THE END

In striking contrast to the burlesque staged last week on Widener steps the Harvard Anti-War Conference pointed the way in its recent meeting towards a sensible plan of action against the proponents of war. The serious discussion of the problems involved and the resolutions adopted at the conclusion indicate that the student organizations sponsoring the conference are aware of the efficacy of constructive action over emotional demonstrations.

Among the resolutions adopted by the Conference was a refusal to support the United States Government in any war it may conduct, a proposal to investigate munitions manufactures and war preparations; and the suggestion to request the Visiting Committees of the Military and Naval Science Departments at Harvard to investigate the ease with which undergraduate credits are given to students in these courses. The R.O.T.C. was subjected to scathing criticism, and its abolition at Harvard was advocated. These sane proposals repeated in other places may sufficiently arouse the public from its lethargy and infuse it with energy enough to take decisive action against munitions makers and institutions like the R.O.T.C.

Towards this latter department at Harvard there is already a growing feeling of antagonism both on the part of the Faculty and the students. The feeling is prevalent that men should not be instructed how to wage war but how to preserve peace and international tranquility without force. By abolishing these military courses from the curriculum the University would set a precedent for other colleges and aid in a practical way in furthering the cause of peace.