Paternalism in the American College
theories. History should be presented as the story of humanity with valuable lessons for today. Literature should be stressed as the study of human nature rather than as a cadaver for minute dissection. Finally, in the paternalistic college, the English language should be taught to the many who cannot pronounce it correctly, write it grammatically, or read it understandingly. The accurate use of words is the basis of all clear thinking, and the ability to use one's mother tongue with accuracy is of the highest practical value. Since the American college has been gradually led by circumstances to become a paternalistic institution, it will at least be fulfilling its obligations when it provides good teachers, uses lectures and seminars sparingly, stresses recitations and examinations in the more rigorous subjects, wisely regulates a student's choice of electives, and sees to it that those courses he does elect carry him far enough to be of genuine value in later life.