OBITER DICTUM

Reviving memories of the conflicts of principle over the dedication of the Memorial Chapel the Corporation again takes a stand on an international issue with its refusal to grant acceptance to the offer of a scholarship for foreign study by Dr. Ernst Hanfstaengl. Despite the unquestionable truth that the political party of which Hanfstaengl is a member "has inflicted damage on the universities of Germany" in striking at the principles which are "fundamental to universities throughout the world," the obiter dictum in President Conant's letter of refusal seems indeed unnecessary.

The Corporation was doubtless prejudiced by the failure of Dr. Hanfstaengl to keep the proposal secret, until it had been passed upon in accordance with customary procedure. It cannot be denied that the Press Agent has a flair for publicity. However, is letter, making the offer is couched in the friendliest of terms, in no sense meriting so curt and caustic a reply. It should be noted that the proposed scholarship was to have been "assigned for work covering one year, six months to be spent in Germany's art center, Munich, the remainder in any other German university."

That political theories should prevent a Harvard student from enjoying an opportunity for research in one of the world's greatest cultural centers is most unfortunate, and scarcely in line with the liberal traditions of which Harvard is pardonably proud. Other considerations aside, whatever the decision of the Corporation, Hanfstaengl's offer was a friendly gesture, and it is regrettable that the Corporation could not have treated it as such, answering it in the spirit in which it was given.