Student Union Can Distill Spirit of Academic Freedom

Accenting the work of the American Student Union in spreading the doctrine of Academic Freedom, or, as he termed it, "the living democracy" among colleges where it is almost non-existent, George Edwards, chairman of the National Student Union, spoke to 50 members of the local branch at Phillips Brooks House last night.

Lack of Freedom

Using Columbia and Texas as examples, Edwards pointed out the absence of freedom at 75 percent of American higher institutions. He commented upon the Burke case at the former college and censorship of the student press at the latter.

The speaker also praised the Union for its work in combating war, bringing social issues into the classroom, and rousing labour interest.

Rolf Kaltenborn '37, president of the Harvard Student Union, introduced Edwards. Laurence S. Levy '39, prefaced his remarks with a brief talk on the recent regional conference of New England affiliates at Smith College.