Social Relations 'Correction'

To the Editors of the CRIMSON:

The Crimson of April 27, discussing the Social Relations Department, contains an implication that needs correction. It is quite correct to state that our disciplines contain more theory than fact. It is incorrect to imply that prospective concentrators can look to an early ending of this condition. Our primary interest is in the development of a systematic and rigorous body of social theory capable of predicting behavior. To state that we are getting more empirical is only to state that we are interested in the operation and materials by which we can test our theories.

Our "nebulousness" is, of course, a function of the newness of our science: but nebulousness exists on the frontiers of even the most advanced and rigorous of sciences,-- which we are not. Those of a "factual" inclination, therefore, have every right to suspect that they may be unhappy in any science. We do suggest, however, that even at our present relatively primitive level of theoretical development, our work is of some value to those interested in understanding important areas of behavior. Norman Birnbaum   Michael Olmsted   Teaching Fellows in Social Relations