But the 'Tonian also published a lively set of letters on differences of opinion on various specific aspects of the Civil Rights Committee's proposals, which was a welcome reflection of the openness of debate on important matters. As I told you four years ago at the Common Reading Convocation on Colored People, I believe race is the toughest issue we face as a society, and I hope you will each wish to work on that issue in your own way. Liberal education will not only greatly increase your capacity for satisfactions, but if it is worthy of the name, it will also add to your tortures. While my experience with Carleton alumni suggests they are very diverse in their views, they do possess moral compasses which help them navigate the world. A liberal arts education is meant to liberate, to free you to be an autonomous being, to find truth for yourself, to make your own choices.
Some faculty do, too.
But the central faith in this institution at Carleton is not that we as a faculty have the truth and the task of you, as students, is to learn it. Our central belief is that we can help young people join with us in the process of discovery and inquiry, so that you can improve your own critical faculties, your own ability to express yourself, and your thoughts, and your beliefs. That is the independence that we seek. I think of the struggles and triumphs that you've had, the successes and the failures, whether playing for CUT or Syzygy in Colorado, breaking conference records, beating the Oles, singing in Carnegie Hall, performing or directing here on campus, whether in the Accidentals, or The Three Sisters, or dozens and dozens of other activities. Every week the list of your accomplishments and challenges is long.