Education For Life, Not Death, Should Be Goal, Ruthven Tells Freshmen

Education For Life, Not Death, Should Be Goal, Ruthven Tells Freshmen

“Education for life, not death,” is the goal toward which Alexander G. Ruthven, president of the University, would have his 1,800 new freshmen strive.

The Michigan president made that admonition in an address last night and charged, “some of our educators seem to have lost sight of the important objectives of education in, as well as beyond, the war effort."

Ruthven explained “we are engaged in the dirty business of war. You did not start the conflict but you will have to carry it on.

“Even in such a time and under such conditions, it is not your sole mission in life to learn to fight, no matter what you are told. Your preparation should be much broader. You should get clearly in mind the kind of world you want after the war and then prepare yourselves to bring about and to administer this world.”

Scores Politics In War

He told the entering class they could detect, if they had not already done so, the “politics, selfishness and waste” that taint the war effort.

“Despite all of these disheartening conditions,” Ruthven said, "I urge you with all sincerity to look to your own possibilities for service to your fellowmen, for this is the only way democracy can be preserved.

"You are going to be fighting men; determine to be more than soldiers. You will be taught to kill; insist also upon learning how to live.”

Students who enter college this fall not determined to work hard are “disloyal to their country,” he asserted.

"If your college training is interrupted,” he advised, “be resolved to continue your mental growth wherever, whenever and however you can.”