vol_11_no_12 by Michigan Review

cademics Sacrificed for Diversity by Enk Berg In an ongoing effort to improve campus libraries, the University of Michigan's library administration has created the Strategic Action Committee (SAC), a body designed to strengthen the University's library collections and facilities to meet the challenges of the 21st century. Unfortunately, some of the committee's most progressive reforms will likely possess troubling hidden costs. An important part of this initiative, like so many others which the U-M has undertaken in recent years, is the purported pursuit of diversity. A comprehensive, 19-page library memo circulated September 11 presented many worthwhile goals to be undertaken by U-M libraries in the coming years. Some of these goals include making libraries more accessible to the handicapped and prOViding better education for library staff and users about each facility's available holdings.

The memo also states several goals deSigned to improve the library in terms of diversity. Among other things, the memo expresses the library administration's desire to " recruit and retain a diverse, highly qualified staff," to "[c]ontinue to support the PIC [Peer Inform a ti on Counseling] program and other similar programs for students at risk," and to "[ s ]trengthm recru i tmen t of a diverse staff."

The committee's plan, however, will adversely affect other parts of the University. Faced with a budget crunch which is currently hurting the U-M's science collections, and despite already having receiv ed a $15,000 allocation for Latin American publications, the University Jibraries have requested $10,000 in new funding for -' "diversity materials." This new allocation would henceforth be made annually.

Cohen Speaks on Abortion by Adam DeVore "I'm not here to argue for or against any position with respect to abortion itself," announced Residential College Pr~ fessor Carl Cohen as he began a presentation entitled "How Not to Argue About Abortion" on Monday, November 16. "So if you are one who takes a strong position or has a particular view on the matter," he added, "you're not going to find that anything that I say will flatly contest it. However, I am going to say some things that I think you will find controversial." And that Professor Cohen surely did, judging by the reactions of the listeners who had gathered in East Quad's Benzinger Library to hear his presentation. The subject of abortion is so "vexed" and one "about which people feel so strongly," Cohen reflected, that many "wi.ll grasp at any argument which may seem to promise support for their position," Some of these arguments - indeed some of the most commonly heard

ones - are deeply problematical, however, either due to poor logical construction or dubious premises. Noting that a particular argument's failure does not imply the falsity of the conclusion which it purports to uphold, Cohen nevertheless urged his listeners to "cleanse" themselves of deficient arguments, since they are likely to be detected as fallacious. Once one's arguments are so identified, one's position may be undermined in the eyes of others as they come to believe, however wrongly, that one's conclusion is indefensible. Cohen's first target was an intellectually sloppy argument commonly advanced by so-called pro-choicers (whom he operationally termed Liberals for the sake of convenience while acknowledging that such labeling can be tricky). In particular, the argument holds that a woman's pregnancy belongs to her alone, and asserts, therefore, that moral decisions pertaining to the pregnancy are hers as well. Cohen did not question this

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portion of the argument; rather, he criticized the Liberals' implicit and arguably illicit importation of the hidden assumption that the fetus is not a person. Because no immediate resolution to the national abortion debate appears probable, the argument continues, society should approach abortion as it approaches religious freedom: Let individuals decide upon their moral convictions and practices for themselves, and be tolerant of their choices, however immoral those choices might seem. A woman may, consequently, choose to terminate her pregnancy if she so desires. Opponents of abortion (whom Cohen operationally termed Conservatives) often respond to the preceding bogey by arguing that "the tolerance practiced in religion cannot be practiced with respect to abortion" because at stake in cases of abortion, unlike religiOUS disputes, "is the well-being of a separate moral be-

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Dean of Libraries Donald Riggs defended the proposed library" diversity" expenditures on the grounds that the diversity collections are "curriculum driven." The question is, by whose curriculum? The increased diversity allocation request comes at a time when budgets for science journals and publications are being cut and entire departmental libraries are being consolidated. Chemistry Pr~ fessor and Chair of the Chemistry Library Committee John Wiseman questions the wisdom of SAC's progressive fiscal prioritization. Asked whether the forced cuts in the pw.roasing of research journals would 'hurt the University's chances for large research grants, Wiseman explained, "Anything which has a detrimental effect on the quality and quantity of our primary research holdings is going to have an effect." The research journals being cut are the primary sources of information for chemistry research papers, according to Wiseman. These research papers, moreover, are precisely the sort of work that brings grants to the University. Wiseman added that he expects the University to require more cuts next year. The Chemistry Department, however, has little funding to spare and would surely suffer appreciably from further

Please See Page 9

INSIDE Serpent's Tooth

Science

Editorials

Mothers' LeHers

Manifesto

Masculinism

Muncherism

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THE MICHIGAN REVIEW

December 2, 1992

THE

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Serpent's Tooth U-M Department of English Chairman Bob Weisbuch recently commented in the University Record,"We don't think of our faculty in terms of racial or ethnic background. as members of one group or another, but in terms of the persons themselves and their expertise." The Record later reported (in the same article) Weisbuch's proclamation of '''a universal desire on the part of existing faculty ' to brin.g in more women apd persons of color." Sounds like some administrators graduated from the Bill Clinton School of Logical Consistency.

English proficiency exam. They charge that "the exam is racially biased because black students fail in greater numbers than white students," according to the Detroit Free Press. We find that odd, considering that 74 percent of black students passed the test in 1987 (th e last year Gifford took it) and that Gifford' and Mathis' combined high school GP A comes to a whopping 2.65. According to Colorado representative Pat Schroeder, "Men are terrified of women in power." Women, pay no attention! It's fine for you to be on top.

Speaking of Billy Boy, he met with Ronald Reagan over the weekend, and the Great One graciously presented the Slick One with a jar of red, white and blue jelly beans. Rumor has it Willy threw away the white and blue ones. .

Spotted: a flyer posted by the Group Against Waffling and Illogical Liberals (GA WAIL). As if those adjectives were necessary.

Martina Gifford and Otis Mathis, two black students at Wayne State University, are suing the institution because neither of them can pass a mandatory

In a November 24 editorial, the Daily claimed that Regent Deane Baker's (RAnn Arbor) suggestion to include "pedophilia, sado masochism, incest and gross indecency" as punishable offenses

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MICIDGAN REVIEW in the Statement of Student Rights and Responsibilities rpi-' esented a "thinlyveiled shot at gays." The editorial explained, "Actually, Baker's amendment represents an established gay-bashing tactic-linking homosexuality with be.· tiality and other acts." Curiously, Baker's proposed am endments never mention homosexuality. It appears to be the Daily editorial board, no t Baker, which has asserted a connection between homosexuality and pedophilia, sado masochism, incest and gross indecency. Damn homophobes. The same Daily editorial neglects to mention that the controversial amendment was but one of 15 which Baker proposed after delivering a scathing critique of the Statement. Even worse, the DUly neglects to mention that two of Baker's proposals specifically sought to preserve the First Amendment rights of the Daily and the Review. All this in the wake of the Daily and Baker alike having sided against the code. War makes for strange bedfellows, . eh? Just in case you missed it, Stanford University introduced a new class last spring entitled, "Black Hair as Culture and History." Among the lecture topics covered by Professor Kennell Jackson are "The Rise of the Afro" and "Fade-O-Rama, Braiding and Dreadlocks." If you' re interested, we hear that there's still room on the waitlist. The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Residence Life Program offers one Way to Experience Diversity: "Go to a toy store and investigate the aVailability of racially diverse dolls." Better yet, only purchase those dolls which say, "Math class is tough, 50 I enrolled in 'Black Hair as Culture and History.'"

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The New York City public school system has suggested Heather has Two Mommies and Daddy's Roommate as books for first graders, both of which are about homosexual couples raising children. Of course, Pat Buchanan's speech at the GOP convention. in which he stated that there is a culture war, was 50, 50 . . . wrong! In her speech at last spring's graduation ceremony, ABC News anchor Carole SImpson said, "I at first thought I shouldn't bring up issues of race and gender. But if I don't, who wim" Well, gee, uh, urn, ah, gosh ... hell, we can't think of anyone either, Carole!

The Campus Mfairs Journal of the University of Michigan

1 We are the Establishment Editor-in-Chie£

Adam DeVore

Publisher

Karen S, Brinkman

Executive Editors

Andrew Bockelman Joe Coletti Tony Ghecea

Contribu.ting Editors

Beth Martin Jay D, McNeill Tracy Robinson Stacey L. Walker

Music Editor Literary Editor Graphics Editor

Chris Peters Adam Garagiola Will Ryan

Assistant Editors

Ryan Boeskool Brian Schefke

'Copy Editor MTS Meister Systems Analyst

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Business Assistants Peter Daugavietis Chet Zarko

Staff Eddie Arner, Eric Berg, Michele Brogley, jerry Czarnecki, Erica De Santis, james E. E1ek, joe Epstein, Frank Grabowski, Nate jamison, Ken johnston, Eric Lepard, Mary the Cat, Bud Muncher, Crusty Muncher, Dave Perczak, Drew Peters, Renee Rudnicki, TS Taylor, Perry Thompson, Corey Tobin, Martin Vloet, Michelle Wietek., Matt Wilk, Tony Woodlief.

Editors Emeriti

Brian Jendryka John J. Miller

The Mi chigan Rwiew is an independent, stu· dent-nm journal at the University of Michigan, We neither solicit nor accept any donations from the University of Michigan. Contributions to the Michigan Review are tax-<leducl· ible under Section SOl (c)(3) of the Internal Rev enue Code, The Review is not affiliated with any political party. Unsigned editorials represent the opinion of the editorial board. Signed articles represent the opinions of the author and not necessarily those of the Review. We welcome letters and articles and encourage comments about the journal and issues discussed in it.

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THE MICHIGAN REVIEW.

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Scientifically Speaking

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Of Fiber-optics and Mobile Robots by Jal'l"lU Elek and Brian Schefke Raoul Kopelman, a University of Michigan professor of chemistry, has developed the first ultrasrnall fiber-optic sensor capable of monitoring chemicals' properties within a living cell. The new sensor is 1,000 times smaller than existing fiber-optic sensors and is visible only under magnification. It also responas in milliseconds, apprOximately 100 times faster than current optical sensing devices. According to Kopelman, the fiberoptic sensor has the potential to monitor many cellular chemical properties, such as levels of acidity, calcium, potassium, and carbon dioxide. "This shows the potential of nanotechnology [the fabrication of ultrasmall devices] for use in optical microscopy and cellular biology," Kopelman said. ult demonstrates that you can use ordinary light to analyze biological samples with volumes at least a million times smaller than is possible with current optical microscopy techniques." Potential biological applications for the probe in research and medicine are extensive, according to Kopelman. They include testing the effects of new drugs

in the far end of the probe, which rests in a solution of simple molecules called monomers. The light iriduces a chemical reaction between monomers in solution and molecules on the end of the probe, thus prodUCing or "growing" a polymer tip. The research team is currently able to produce probes just 200 angstroms across (about 20 times the size of an average molecule) but eventually hopes be able to make sensors only one molecule across.

A robotic vehicle that is to be more maneuverable, stable, and reliable than its contemporaries has been designed at the U-M by Johann Borenstein, an assistant research scientist in the College of Engineering. The vehicle is designed to carry materials or conduct inspections in hostile environments, such as toxic waste dumps or inside nuclear reactors. What makes the U-M vehicle unique is that it offers all the advantages of full maneuverability without the control problems that have plagued other multi-<iegree-of-freedom (MOOF) prototypes - robots capable of movement in all directions. In the past, MDOF vehicles have I ...... c.... a:;:eop:;)'t4i .•'QiC .+;, .. -ii •.,;;;;;;:;;;;S.-. c suffered from slippage in the wheels. This slippage has typically resulted from MDOF vehicles' design. Each wheel has a separate steering mechanism, and because the electronic and mechanical components cannot react as quickly as the computer components command, slippage occurs. "Achieving a zero error rate is especially important when robots Kaptlman's JiM--{}J'fic probe, only 20 times the width of an average are used to explore and molmdt, emits light through its apaature hp. map an unknown area,"

on single cells - which could reduce the need for animal testing - monitoring embryos for birth defects, gene sequence identification, and detection of individual cens (e.g. cancer cells) or even Single molecules within a sample. Kopelman and his associates developed a technique called photopolyrnerization in order to produce the probes. The process begins when researchers shine a beam of light into one end of a nanofabricated optical fiber prd:le that is coated with aluminum to prevent light from escaping through the sides.

Ught emerges from a very small opening

Borenstein said. "It's possible only if humans directing the robots from a remote location always know precisely where the robot is located." To solve the slippage problem, technicians developed a new design using two movable chassis that Borenstein calls "compliant linkage." Each chassis has a set of wheels and sensors linked to a central computer. "Whenever the distance b{!tween the two chassis deviates from a preset 'normal' value, the second chassis compensates immediately by sliding forward or backward on a track beneath

the vehicle," Borenstein explained . Feedback sensors detect the chassis' movement and the computer then directs

inspections inside nuclear reactors and hazardous waste dumps. The MDOF vehicle's dual chassis gives it the ability to "rescue itself' if it gets stuck or a component fails, a feature that is especially important when human intervention is impossible.

James Elek is a junior in physics and a staff writer for the Review. Brian Schefke is a junior in chemistry and cellular and molecular biology and an assistant editor of the Review.

corrective action. Borenstein said that the most immediate application for his MDOF vehicle will be material transport .4lnd -~

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THE MICHIGAN REVIEW

From Suite One: Editorials

December 2, 1992

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Multiculturalism Claims Another Victim As part of the University of Michigan's continuing pursuit of diversity, the U-M library system has found it necessary not merely to allocate $34,000 for programs designed to increase the U-M's diversity quotient, but also to request an additional $10,000 for other such programs (see page 1). All of this comes during a fiscal year described by the administration as one of "shared sacrifice." Unfortunately, it seems that it is academics which are being sacrificed. Take, for example, the Chemistry Department. While this year's price for new and improved diversity approaches at least $44,000, subscriptions to scientific journals which have been deemed too expensive to continue are being cancelled. The work of chemistry professors and other researchers, who rely heavily on these publications, will surely suffer. Any loss they experience will likewise be felt throughout the University, as it is the Chemistry Department's reputation and research capabilities which allow it to bring in lucrative research grants. Unfortunately for those who conduct research in the Chemistry Building, this is not the only sacrifice their work must endure. Earlier this term, the Engineering Transportation Ubrary moved out of the Undergraduate Library building and was consolidated with the Engineering Library on North Campus. The vacant space left will be filled by the Chemistry and Physics/ Astronomy Libraries, which will move from the buildings in which their respective departments are housed. The move is being undertaken in order to cut the personnel costs associated with maintaining these libraries in different buildings. But this cost-saving measure comes at the expense of the work of researchers. Researchers in the Chemistry Building will no longer be able to check facts by quickly

consulting reference materials in the library. Chemists who perform "hurry up and waif' experiments (e.g. an experiment which requires brief functions to be performed at one-hour intervals) will no longer be able to oscillate between the library and the lab, conducting research between performing functions in the lab or while waiting for instruments to stabilize. The relocation of the library also poses problems for graduate students and faculty who work at night by moice or necessity. Some of these researchers who need to access reference materials while conducting their experiments may not feel comfortable traversing campus or repeatedly entering and exiting the building while it is dark outside and there are few other pedestrians or passersby around. As Thomas Sowell of the Hoover Institute has rightly pointed out, while diversity programs such as those implemented by the U-M library system are, in and of themselves, of disputable worth, the immediate threat is the damage done when these programs are implemented at the expense of academics. The careful observer should note the irony of the University's actions. While funnelling tens of thousands of dollars (not including the salary for the U-M's Diversity Librarian) into the pursuit of diversity, materials which enhance the University's research environment - the same environment that the administration argues must be enhanced to improve minority recruitment - are being eliminated. One might justifiably wonder, in view of these considerations, whether the U-M will be able to defend the reasonability and consistency of its policies when it next asks alumni and other donors for more contributions or when it raises tuition again. """"",,,,<"'"

Revamping Ticket Prices As the Wolverines are headed to the Rose Bowl again and the University of Michigan's basketball team prepares to make another run for the national championship, it's time to consider ways of dealing with the rising cost of attending collegiate athletic events. The high cost of tickets to popular U-M sporting events represents a growing obstacle to the ability of students to obtain quality athletic entertainment. The price for six h0l1'le football games this.season was $63, and a full-season basketball package \yent for a ~ool $78. Students already financially strapped with bills for tuition, rent, utilitiesl food, books, and numerous fees imposed by the U-M administration may find it difficult to reach much deeper into their pockets to pay for the entertainment of intercollegiate alhletics. The U-M can, however, overhaul its ticket pricing system to accommodate students who cannot afford to keep up with the steady increases of the current flat fee system while still making a profit. Presently, every student customer is forced to pay the same price regardless of his or her seat's viewing quality. This pricing scheme is a far cry from the free market economics which have historically proven themselves to be superior to other systems. It is socialism inoknate. The current system leaves student fans in one of three categories: those who would be willing to pay more for better seats, but are not allowed to do so; those whose willingness and ability to pay is equal to the current ticket price; and those who would like to attend games, but cannot afford to do so. The first group provides the solution to the problem posed by flat-rate ticket pricing.

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The U-M Athletic Department should institute a market-based pricing scheme which would price seats in accordance with their realistic worth (i.e. in terms of consumer desire and the amount of money students are willing to pay - a demanddriven pricing system). Such a system would simultaneously increase the cost for premium seats <e.g., those on the 40 yard line) and lower the cost for less desirable seats (e.g., those in the end zone). For example, the cost of seats in Section 26 could be raised to a level commensurate with their higher quality, while the price for seats in Section 31 could be dropped below current levels. Moreover, tickets within each section could be priced according to row numbers. Prices for tickets in the first 20 rows could be raised considerably, while prices for seats in more distant rows could be inversely related to their distance from the field (i.e. the greater the distance, the cheaper the ticket). One objection to such a radical mange might come from students who believe they should benefit from seniority. Such an objection could be easily addressed by modifying the system such that seniors get the first choice of seats, juniors the second, and soon. As a market-based approach, this system would create a wide range of choices where none existed before. Students who are unable to afford current rates could buy tickets at cheaper prices; their tickets might 'not be excellent, but at least these students would have a chance to see games. Students who are happy with the current system could buy tickets of pricing and quality similar to what they are now. Lastly, students with the desire and financial clout to buy top quality tickets could do so, paying more for better tickets while securing lower prices for disadvantaged students and turning a profit for the D-M. Such choices would ultimately serve students better. As for the question of whether a sufficient number of students will be willing to bear the burden of a steep increase in the price of premium tickets, one should consider that many students who are forced to sit in the end zone all year would gladly pay more for better seats. Prices under a free-.marlcet system would not necessarily have to be raised through the roof; demand-sensitive pricing would only charge as much for tickets as students were willing to pay. This would be far better than the current system, which forces all students to respond equally to price increases and handcuffs the University into charging the same amount for every student ticket. Under a free market system, then, no ticket would cost too little or too much. j

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December 2, 1992

THE MICHIGAN REVIEW

Letters to the Editor

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Dead Horses, Heathens, & Thought Control Floraphile Defends Mother Loathes Son's Mother Reactes to Poli Greg Stump Article, Fears He Has Sci 111 Article, Berates Become a Heretic To the Editor: Meizlish's Judgment Come on, Greg Stump isn't that bad. I know it's been a slow year, with no big protests, anti-deputization crusades, or Drake's Fives to react to. You find yourself resorting to MIM, feminists, and "We told you so's." That's fine, but gee whiz, when one cartoonist, in a Single issue, rates a psychiC interview, a derogatory cartoon, and two mentions in Crusty's Comer, I think we've strayed into deadhorse-beating territory. (Speaking of abusing deceased equines, Greg Stump portrayed the media doing just that with their dead electionhorse a few days after the election was over. You folks didn't like that one?) I'm sure that like any other unpaid, amateur, college cartoonist, Mr. Stump is doing the best he can. He is liberal, but sometimes approac~s rationality. The Review is conservative, and also occasionally touches the real world. So that' s settled. If you're really craving something juicy, listen to this: Yesterday, while taping up protest flyers and handing out condoms, I attacked a man for callously crushing a living flower with his foot. That's because I'm so liberal. React away.

John Ramos SNRE Senior The Review neither condemns nor condones gratuitous violence against living flowers.

Hey, Liberal!

Got (l Gripe? Hey, Conservative!

Got (lIZ Opinioll?

SPEAI< UP! Send your letters to: Til" M icll igall l~{,l'i('w S" i tt' Ollt' 911 North 1IIIil'l'rsitl/ Ai'L' AIIII .. \d'ol", M/ .Jc'路H(}lJ

To the Editor: I guess I thought your newspaper was somewhat conservative - you know, the baseball, hot dogs, apple pie and lemonade type paper that focuses on respect for family life, women, minorities, etc. Guess I was wrong. I'm referring to the article written by Andrew Bockelman regarding the Jesus and Mary Chain concert in your Nov. 4, 1992, issue. It is somewhat of a coincidence that the small parochial school where I teach in Saginaw, Ml just had a seminar for its 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students on the influence of musical lyrics on th\:l youth of today. The speaker, Mr. Rick Ramuindo, pulled no punches about the content of some songs as he popped one tape after another into his sound machine and let the students listen to bits and pieces of songs. Oh, and he didn't have to play the entire song as there was always someone in the audience who could finish a line or give the content aloud. One of the songs dealt with a bank robbery in which a female customer is told to go to a back room and take off her blouse so the robbers can admire her breasts. When the robbers tell her to take off her bottoms, they find she is a man! The kids were made aware of the X, 0, and V ratings of music: Sex is X, violence is V, and 0 is obscenity. Anyway, here we have Mr. Bockelman's article that refers to a few of the songs the group sang, namely, ''Teenage Lust," "Gimme Hell," and "I wanna die just like Jesus Christ. I wanna die on a bed of spikes." I find the lyrics alone of this last song very sacrilegious. Okay, I am just a teacher and a mother, but one who is concerned about the information that is put into young minds. You are a University newspaper that, in my opinion, needs to generate a little more respect and positive influence on the youth of today. (By the way, I was totally impressed with the article in your paper of Oct. 21, 1992, titled "In Defense of a Little Virginity" and plan to use it in my 7th and 8th grade AIDS class.)

To the Editor: Having just read Adam DeVore's October 28 article, ''Thought Policed in Poli Sci 111," I feel compelled to reply. I am a 51-year-old woman, wife, and mother of three grown children with a college degree and a job. I would like to address the follOWing to TA Deborah Meizlish: Chill out, lady, and get a life! Don't you have anything better to do than pick on sophomores and intimidate them for that kind of paragraph in an essay? Get real! The world is full of important and meaningful things to do. You must be a ferninazi, insecure, or a rabble rouser, or all three. I hope no one ever really offends you! Pity them! There is enough purposefuL~. harassment in the world without

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someone haVing to look for it, manufacture it, or make it up, with the thinnest of bases. My sympathies to student Shawn Brown. I hope that he does not lose his enthusiasm for writing, learning, or political science because of this incident. T A Meizlish's actions are NOT representative of all women. Some of us still have a sense of humor, and we recognize real harassment when we see it. And shame on Professor Rosenstone! Can't these people put their energies to better use than picking on an innocent student and haraSSing him?

Mary Brinkman Gaithersburg, Maryland Both of the preceding letters, as you may have inferred, are from mothers of Review editorial board members. Both are authentic, unsolicited, and of course appreciated. - Ed.

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Mrs. Connie Bockelman Saginaw, Michigan "In Defense of a Little Virginity" was not an article but rather a paid advertisement from Focus on the Family, as was noted in the October 21 issue. - Ed.

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December 2, 1992

THE MICHIGAN REVIEW

Conservative Manifesto

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Why lAm by Joe Coletti

I am a conse111ative because I believe. I believe in the fundamentals of a strong society - God, family, community, country. I believe in man, not in his eternal goodne&<; nor in his perfectibility, but more simply in his essential capacity to overcome adversity . I believe "that all men are created equal ... with certain inalienable rights," but I do not believe that all men are equally endowed with gifts from God . The idea of a natural hi erarchy found in both Plato and Confuciu~s is a truer expression of reality than tlw modern vision of radical eg alitarianism.l deny that man has an unlimited number of rights, since all rights entail responsibilities. America has been able to remain a C1 vii society while accepting so many immigrants from so many foreign lands because of its essential belief in itself and its rightness of purpose. This capacity arises from its founding as a tolerant, Christian nation. Our culture's drift from core prinCiples, which accelerated with the virulent generation of baby boomers, has left the younger generations with no foundation from which to build a common understanding, able only to understand concepts in terms of pleasure and pam. I was raised Catholic; my idea of responsibility is derived from the tenets of Catholicism. I have read Nietzsche; my drive for self-imp rovement and self-reliance are inspired by his Zarathustra and the knowledge that that which does not kill one makes him stronger. I have studied tbe Analects of ConfuCius; my ideas on the individual's place in society have been influenced by his teachings. While these three philosophies of life sometimes contradict one another in fundamental ways (Nietzsche's assertions that God is dead and that Christianity is a slave religion are unwelcome in the Vatican), they do combine to reinforce each other on the necessity of a moral system for guiding one's life. Without a moral center, man loses the ability and impetus to act. It is only when there are certain choices clearly demarcated as right and wrong that action takes on meaning ... and thereby

weight. The ease with which many activities are undertaken today without regard for their consequences is a sign of how unbearable the lightness of being has become in contemporary society. 1am a conservative because 1think.

Tho\lght also contributes to the weight of action. It is only by thinking that one can avoid the unexamined life. Thinking also provides a defense against unexamined public policy, both economic and social. Many people with the very best of intentions recommend policies that prove at best ineffective and at worst destruclive. Marvin Olasky of the Capital Research Center argues in Patterns ofCorporate Philanthropy, a guidebook for corporate donations, that "Compassion these days often connotes a willingness to spend other people's money, supposedly to help the poor." Olasky contends that actions taken in the name of this com passion have hurt those whom they "I "'r~> intended to help by increasing dependency on government and creating roadblocks for those who would attempt to better their lives through work or entrepreneurship. Joseph Schumpeter made virtually the same point fifty years ago in Capitalism, Socialism and DemocraCtJ when he argued that the process of capitalism entails pain, and that the pain inherent in _._ .., growth and change forces I political decisions in a democracy to emphasize government efforts to ease the burdens placed on citizens. In this way, socialism eventually supersedes capitalism because capitalism's strengths manifest themselves in the long-term and once the government iritervenes, it is hard for it to disentangle itself. Only by examining the impending positive effects of change can society avoid the road to serfdom. Examples of unintended but structurally enforced dependency are numerous. Affirmative action, aid for dependent children, and the continual expansion of what constitutes sexual harassment place those who would be beneficiaries of the policies in a weakened position. Those targeted by these policies are encouraged to become more dependent upon others - in the case of sexual harassment, for example, women must rely increasingly on the court and the

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indulgence of men to continue normal relations. Takeo Ooi, a Japanese psychiatrist, wrote in his seminal work, The Anatomy of Dependence, on the concept of amae the indulgence that all children receive from their parents. Ooi claimed that those who participated in the student movement in Japan in the late 1960s never I- j~~"'"ah; learned to amaeru (presume upon others) properly and therefore constantly expected to be gratified. Ooi's critique of the student' s movement in Japan seems to apply equally well to many among the ubiquitous protesting Left. Unfortunately, as the tactics of the Left have proven to be effective tools for achieving its agenda, other groups haw adopted them and in the proces~ . have made society less civil. The message of those who use these tactics has contributed at least as much to the current hostile relations among people. Their goals have been to establish a freedom from religion and thereby enshrine radical secularization as the unofficially propagated state religion, while at the same time attempting to remove all objective bases for action. The results have been various forms of state-sponsored indoctrination and coercion like those mentioned above. Rather than imposing a way of thinking upon others, it is better to present people with a strong basis of morality and reason and allow that grounding to guide their actions. Moral guidance is the better choice, since it allows for a person to remain an independent actor rather than a mere Pavlovian reactor. Only in this way, can individuals understand the weight of action. People may be weak and nihilistic on their own, but the purpose of socialization and education is to transform these impulses by appealing to the "better angels of our nature," as Abraham Uncoln has dubbed them. The existence of these better angels provides me with the hope required to remain human(e) and strengthens my spirit.

ernment can and will allow people to act in their own best interest, and that people will do so for themselves and their community. Mine is a solitary and undying hope. It is easily raised by certain events and just as easily deflated, but the core remains and provides me with the courage to persevere. People on the left and right, when they think, inspire this hope. George Orwell and Al ex ander Cockburn provide solace, as do th e more expected sources of William Safire and the Wall Street Journal' s editorial page. Those who think eam my respect; those who merely repeat the standard line do not. Two stories of great men may help illustrate what I mean by hope, strength, and respect. Marvin Uebman, one of the founders "of'fhe modern conservative movement and author of Coming Out Conservative, is homosexual. He has criticized others in the movement for their intolerance, and in so doing he is correct. In addition to problems from his ideological compatriots, however, he must also face scorn from those in the homosexual community for joining with the supposed enemy. Another example of someone who has suffered persecution because of his political beliefs is Clarence Thomas. Groups of all types on the political Left were against Thomas' nomination. The NAACP opposed the idea that he replace Thurgood Marshall, despite its earlier recommendation that a CP should succeed the retiring justice. The organization's national leaders were so virulent in their dislike of Thomas that they would not recognize the attempt of the NAACP's Compton branch to support Thomas. There was to be no dissent within the ranks. Marvin Liebman and Clarence Thomas both display remarkable courage and strength in their ability to see through adversity. They are true champions of the conservative spirit of individual liberty, and they remind me of why I am.

Joe Coletti is a senior in Asian studies and an executive editor of the Review.

I am conseroative because I hope. Hope is the final reason for my conservatism - hope that all can and will be judged solely on their merits, that gov-

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THE MICHIGAN REVIEW

Review

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Lincoln Against the Left ;ncoln st Gettysburg ary Wills imon and Schuster ardcover, 317 pages ~3.00

f Joe Coletti Since the nation's very incepti on, the 'eatest export of America has been the ea that all men are created equal. While e have never been able to reify thi s 'ea\, it is a goal toward which we mt in ue to struggle. Abraham Lincoln stated this nation' s highest purpose in s Gettysburg Addres,.') . The circumstances under which ncoln transformed America are the foci Gary Wills' Lincoln at Gettysburg. Wills :amines several influences that affected nc oln's writing and thought in th e ettysburg Address: the anscendentalist philosophers who were fluential during the nineteenth century; Ie Greek Revival, which accompanied ) increased emphasis on popular ~m()cracy; and the "culture of death" •sociated with Romanticism and the reek Revival, under which children ere actually encouraged to go to meteries for moral learning. Wills also details the extensive -evolutions in thought and style" that ncoln was able to achieve in a mere 272 ords. With analyses of how Lincoln's leeches were structured and how he ~veloped his themes over time, Wills early explicates the transformation of merican formal speeches that Lincoln :hieved through his powerful, selfyled example. It is in the section on the "revolution thought," however, that one discovers 'ills' true mission - an attempt to find Lincoln's ideas a validation of modem :>eral thought. To achieve this, Wills tacks modem conservatives like Robert ~rk and Russell Kirk, and selects laterials from Lincoln's speeches to -cast him as a liberal. For the most part, I1fortunately, Wills ignores Lincoln's eadfast unWillingness to challenge the onstitution either in thought or action. Instead, Wills emphaSizes Lincoln's Ipposedly revolutionary idea that the edaration of Independence is America's lunding document and that it delineates Ie nation's guiding principle. Wills lOoseS to ignore that this view was either revolutionary nor even rlcommon for its time. In typical modem :>eral fashion, Wills confuses his theories ith reality. Wills' conclusion that the modem )irit is ooe of characteristically unbridled

must also renounce the ability CNN demonstrated in circumventing national news agencies, which helped speed the collapse of the Berlin Wall. Wi thin America, "Ideas have consequences" became the rallying cry of the reborn conservative movement that help ed make Ronald Reagan president. In these cases, ideas have truly changed the shape of the \\\orld and the nature of relations among people and nations. They also have demonstrated that it is primarily conservatives who use ideas as weapons in their battles. Ironically, Lincoln at Gettysburg is a book about the power of ideas in transforming nations; unfortunately, Wills does not follow the ideas he discusses to their logical conclusions. If he did, perhaps he would find m ore similarities between Lincoln's ideas and those of modern conservatives.

individualism appears true enough, In another section of his book, Wills although there is a growing communityemphasizes that lincoln did not expand based response to the nihilism born in his powers as Commander-in-Chief of the Army and Navy and was not willing the hyper-individualism of the 1960s. The main problem with Wills' to overstep constitutional bounds assessment, however, is that he ignores regarding his ability to manaate civilian the cur r e n t p r 0actions, even in the South. It government leaning of the ~ .. . is satisfying to see thi s rare liberalism he lauds. 1 (' example of praise for Lincoln's beliefs about lincoln's restraint in staying government, unlike those . , . ~' within the bounds of of modem liberals, led him , ~. ;;r constitutionality, but in too p p 0 set h e \, ~ praising Lincoln, Wills seems consolidation of power in ' ,,\\\~ , to contradict the main thrust Washmgton. He often "'. " .. ~ of hiS argument - that criticized Presidents James ~~~ \ Lincoln "remade America" Polk and Franklin Pierce, . '." '<'. ~ by s ubverting and realong with Supreme Court interpreting the Constitution. C hief Justice Roger Taney, for their Since Wills often criticizes the views expansion of "The Slave Power" - that of modern conservatives, he must is, their willingness to see slavery disregard recent history to validate his transplanted to the new territories and belief that ideas are solely the tools of liberals. For example, he must deny the eventually to the northern states. Since influence Radio Free Europe, the Voice he was an avid supporter of Jeffersonian idealism, Lincoln would have been of America, and Radio Marti contributed appalled by the current expansion of to the West's victory in the Cold War. He

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mandated "rights" that actually limit liberty . Unlike m odern liberals, who routinely seek to grant people new "rights," Lincoln appealed to the Declaration of Independence when definin$ the rights to which all are entitled:

Joe Coletti is a senior in Asian studies and an executive editor of the Revie'w. ."N,~ "'·

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I think the authors of that noble instrument intended to include all men, but they did not intend to declare all men equal in all respects. They did not mean to say we are all equal in color, size, intellect, moral development, or social capacity. They defined, with tolerable distinctness, in what respects they did consider all men equal - equal in "certain unalienable rights, among which are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness." This they said, and this they meant. In this way, Lincoln demonstrated his commitment to equality in the conservative terms which most people before that time used, appropriating the Deciaration, and in so doing so properly reflecting their views. During a campaign against Stephen Douglas for the Senate, Lincoln ridiculed Douglas' desire to regulate inter-racial relations. Lincoln also admitted mans' equality with blacks, insofar as they shared a common humanity. In neither of these cases, however, did Lincoln recommend a more active role for government in social relations. The Douglas episode in fact epitomizes Lincoln's opposition to active government intervention in society.

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December 2, 1992

THE MICHIGAN REVIEW

Book Review

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"Masculinism" and a Men's Studies Department Naked at Gender Gap: A Man' B View of the War Between the Sexes Asa Baber Birch Lane Press I Carol Publishing Group Hardcover, 247 pgs.

$18.95 by Adam Garaglola

I have a married friend who perpetually finds himself hen-pecked, harassed, berated and brow-beaten by his wife, a truly kind, gentle, loving and wellintentioned creature. When his frustration becomes too much to bear, he replies with eyes downcast and head in hands, ''I'm sorry, dear, I'm just a stupid man." UnknOWingly, my friend speaks volumes about what it means to be a man in modem American society. Men are subject to confusing, conflicting signals as to what is expected of them in an age when the public discourse is dominated by the worst excesses of feminist male-bashing and the gross stereotyping of the entire male gender. In Naked at Gender Gap, Asa Baber articulates the plight of modern men boldly and eloquently. In this volume, which is a collection of short essays that originally appeared in Playboy'S liMen" column, he explores a wide range of issues relevant to male identity and gender relationships from a male perspective. Never shy about becoming embroiled in' controversy, Baber challenges feminists to re-examine their one-sided views, which heap scorn on men and often find them completely responsible for nearly all of society's ills. At the same time, he examines the male psyche and attempts to diagnose its shortCOmings objectively, in the hope that men can come to a better understanding of their place in the n;todern world, Baber insightfully recognizes that our society often presents a picture of manhood that is more caricature than characterization: in movies, television, literature, and other elements of popular culture, men are portrayed as either inhumane and oppressive tyrants, or hopelessly incompetent bunglers; in both cases their brains reside firmly and irretrievably in the crotches of their trousers. In response to this barrage of negativity, Baber argues that "Men must make a case for themselves." The heart of the problem, as Baber views it, is that traditional masculine characteristics, such as self-reliance, aggressiveness, and stoicism. are denigrated by a society which seems to offer no alternatives to replace

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them. trying to make it through the warzone of exemplar of what it means to be male. Baber writes from a perspective that Of course, Baber realizes that the gender relations in one piece. one might classify as "masculinism," a reality of modern American family life Two of the columns in the section male counterpart to feminism, a world entitled "Men, Women, Sex, and Censormeans that many sons lack a positive view that is actively conscious of gender father figure worthy of imitation. Baber ship" are of special interest. In "Feminist distinctions and concerned with the comexhorts his readers to fill this void in U," Baber examines the growth of plications that arise from them. This fatherless boys' lives by becoming their women's studies programs at American "masculinism," as Baber conceives it, universities. To illustrate the "virulent mentors, either by working individually incorporates a reasonable, realistic apwith neighborhood youth or through orsexism" of academic feminism, he fopraisal of the "male character" and its ganizations such as the Boy Scouts. The cuses on the problems encountered by a failings, but it simultaneously affirms important thing, he emphasizes, is that University of Washington student, Pete manhood as, in his words, an Schaub, who en"honorable condition." rolled in an introThe treatment of men in ductory women's divorce cases, a recurring isstudies class. For sue in his columns, illustrates haVing the gall to this point. Observing that fatake exception to thers get custody of their chilsuch assertions as dren in only about three per" All men are wife cent of all divorce cases, Baber beaters and child analyzes the psychological .'_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _...-J m 01 es t e rs ," impact of this fact on men. Schaub's instrucThe messages that it conveys - that faboys realize that there are older men who tors attempted to force his withdrawal thers are superfluous in the raising of care about them and their concerns as from the class. children and their guidance and support they grow up, regardless of their family The solution Baber offers is not the are at best secondary, at worst detrimensituation. _,~'~ abolition of women's studies, but rather the establishment of an ~qual and comtal, to children's development - depreBaber also shows a lighter side' when parable offering of men's studies classes. cate the role of the father and have a dealing with issues such as male sexualIn "Class of 1992" he outlines a curricuity and feminist double standards. The devastating impact on men's sense of lum for a hypothetical men's studies proself-worth. good-natured wit he displays in such gram, explOring topics ranging from ''The Baber sees a comon blow to the escolumns as "The 1991 Low-Risk Dating Myths Men Make" to ''The History of the sence of manhood exemplified by his Kit" - which includes such suggestions Common Man," and culminating in a as having your lawyer accompany you at own divorce and the ensuing loss of the "Gender Studies" course which would all times and arranging constant satellite custody of his children: "I couldn't proencourage cooperative approaches to retect my kids? I didn't have a right to live surveillance (in order to protect yourself solving conflicts between the sexes. Baber, with them? Then, by definition, I was not against false accusations of misconduct) who once served as a college professor, a man." - evince a grace and humor that is dishas given this idea some serious thought, In the context of the family as well as tinctly lacking in the typical feminist tract within society at large, men are often and it deserves attention as a proposal on gender relations. which could be a step forward in ending seen as expendable. This perception is Naked at Gender Gap provides several the divisiveness that characterizes the not simply the result of feminists' atexamples of Baber's satiric bent. "The tacks, but also of male.socialization: " As gender gap. After all, if women's studies F.B.1. is Watchingl" postulates that is a valid avenue of intellectual inquiry, men, we are taught from an early age that women (who all work for the Feminine why not treat men equally? male-on-male aggression is natural and Bureau of Investigation) are constantly Indeed, a "Men's Studies" program engaged in an Orwellian enterprise of acceptable ... one of the tests of manhood is exactly what Naked at Gender Gap and can be to demonstrate how fully we subintelligence gathering; while the hapless scribe to the cheapness of male life." Men Baber's on-going "Men" column offer, man gazes inSipidly at an attractive fein encapsulated form. Based on the prinmust "travel beyond" this aggression, male, she compiles data for a detailed Baber writes, and "come to the underciple that by knowing one's self better, report to the Bureau. This and like forays standing that it is as foul for us to hurt one can better relate to others, Baber's into the absurd are amusing because, in and kill one another as it is to hurt and kill book asks men to make an honest aptheir hyperbole, they strike a sublime women and children." praisal of themselves, defends what is chord. Men must begin by re-thinking their good and decent in the male character, In columns like "The Chickenshit relationships to one another and placing and exhorts men to overcome the limitaFactor" (which is Baber's term for the greater worth on their own (and each tions of aggression and emotional retitendency of men to feel foolish and selfothers') lives and health. More imporcence. As my married friend will relate, conscious around women who intrigue Baber' scolumns instill him with fortitantly, men must teach this more huthem), Baber encourages men to exammane set of masculine values to the next ine their sometimes neurotic fear of rejectude and hope, even as the thought of his generation of men. According to Baber, tion and offers friendly advice on how to wife coming home from a hard day at the "men learn how to be men by imitating office causes bouts of fear and ,trembling. overcome it. His tone is light-hearted other men ... good role models are vital to and never condescending; instead of a us if we are to grow up with a strong Adam Garagiola is a senior in creative male "Dear Abby" dispensing sage adsense of self." Hence the importance of a writing and comparative literature and vice to the uninitiated, Baber treats the good father in the family, to serve as the reader as a confidante, a fellow male the literary editor of the Review.

In elements of popular culture ... men are portrayed as either inhumane and oppressive tyrants, or hoplessly incompetent bunglers; in both cases their brains reside firmly and irretreivably in the crotches of their trousers.

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Library Diversity Cvntinued from Page 1 cuts. "I think we're down to the bare bones. I think we're being asked to cut too much," said Wiseman. In light of such concerns, it is unclear how the library's initiative can be called "curriculum driven." One recent blow to the UM's science collections came 1/ when individual subject libraries (such as chemistry, physics and natural science) were condensed and moved to the Undergraduate library. Despite what Wiseman calle4 a "concensus" among the science departments that such a consolidation would be detrimental, the University proceeded with its plan in order to reduce personnel costs. Wiseman said that this relocation creates a problem for researchers who are working in the Chemistry Building and need to find information urgently. He indicated that this displacement of the chemistry library slowed down research by separating the information from those who use it most. "I think that [the library relocation} is a more drastic threat to our research than any cuts in journals because it makes the library much less accessible to researchers," said Wiseman. He also expressed concern that while the added distance to the Undergraduate Library may provide irritation for some researchers, women in research positions may find the prospect of a late night walk across campus to consult a current journal not merely annoying but dangerous. Granted, the extra $25,000 ($10,000 for "diversity materials" and $15,000 for Latin American publications) reserved for "diversity" expedittires this year is a small portion of the total library budget. Nonetheless, one might wonder how the U-M can increase diversity spending while the science departments face library cutbacks and consolidation. In light of such circumstances, it is disturbing that the University consistently paints a favorable picture of diversity without the slightest allusion to diversity's hidden costs.

THE MICHIGAN REVIEW

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sity. One such program is the Peer Information Counseling (PIC) program. The PIC program is an exclusive employment program for students of color in the University library system. Karen Downing, the program's director since August 1989, confirmed the program's exclusiveness when asked spe-

don't face them." Downing added that in the libraries where the PIC program has been enacted, "we are seeing more and more students of color using the library .... There is definitely a difference . ... I think PIC has a lot to do with that." The causal link which Downing suggests exists between PIC and l~\e number of minority students using the library is, however, a dubious one. According to a U-M press release from October 28, minority student enrollment at the U-M has reached an all-time high. Statistically speaking, then, it is only natural that one would notice an increase in the proportion of minority students using the library system. There is no question that the PIC program is helpful to many students. As Downing stated, "When the PIC students are out there, students, no matter what color they are, will walk right past me and go ask the PIC student for help." But why, then, if white students are able to approach students of color for 路 _ help, should the opposite not be true? According to Downing, a white student "probably wouldn't think twice about walking up to a person of color and asking them for help. However, a person of color will always think twice about going up to a white person and admitting that they don't know something because of what has probably been a very long history of being rebuffed." This is a questionable and very presumptuous attitude at best. It not only sounds plainly paternalistic, but may endorse and perpetuate a monolithic view of minorities as helpless victims who cannot interact comfortably with whitesand that is nonsense. Any student accepted to the U-M should be assumed to be mature enough to ask a question of a person of another race at a library information desk. The PIC program is not only objectionable because of its exclusive hiring practices but also because it is funded with $19,000 this year ($13,000 for per-

sonnel costs and $6,000 for advertising). Although such a sum is tiny in comparison to the overall library budget, the money from the Latin American fund ($15,000), the annual "diversity materials" allotment ($10,000), and the PIC program ($19,000) quickly add up to $44,000 dollars this year alone. If the library system alone is able to invest so much in diversity and feelgood programs, one supposes that the U-M as a whole spends considerable amounts more, much of which the public is not aware. The sick irony is that while chemistry and other science departments are desparately in need of money, the University chooses to pursue frivolous goals like "diversity" as a means fur preparing students to face the next century.

Despite what [chemistry Professor] Wiseman called a concensus" among the science departments that [the consolidation of libraries] would be detrimental, the University proceeded with its plan in order to reduce personnel costs.

A Wasteful and Racially Exclusive library Hiring Program While the science departments bleed a slow death, the U-M Ubraries refuse to eliminate other programs that are of dubious nature and of questionable neces-

cifically whether the program is designed to hire only racial minorities. "Yes, it is," she replied, "PIC students are students of color." By only being open to students of color, this program transcends the idea of hiring quotas and sets the standard in reverse discrimination. One may justifiably wonder how an "equal opportunity employer" such as the U-M could continue such a policy of discrimination against one segment of the population. The PIC program exists, according to Riggs, because the library wishes to place more emphasis on the "needs of a diverse population." Said Riggs, "We have [PIC) in the undergraduate library where we work with diverse students . ... It's a program that focuses primarily on minority students ... a tutoring service on how to use the library, how to be a better student, and be successful in one's scholarly activities." Downing noted that the original reason for the PIC program was to address the University's retention problems with minority students. According to Downing, "There are additional barriers [in technology], which are environmental, for students of color. ... It's hard to understand for you or me why there would be those additional barriers because we

"A person of color will always think twice about going up to a white person and admitting that they don't know something because of what has probably been a very long history of being rebuffed." -Karen Downing

Erik Berg is a sophomore in engineering and a staff writer for the Review.

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December 2, 1992

How Not to Argue About Abortion a

question against the Conservative vis vis a circular argument. In contrast to the two fairly extreme views presented earlier, Cohen next dis-cussed a number of Moderate positions which may tend either to the Conservative or Liberal side. "Now, for all of those - I dare say that includes most of you - between the Liberal and Conservative extremes, there is a widespread conviction that it is in some circumstances desperately needed [and) justifiable. A desire to respect these intuitions while simultaneously promoting social harmony thus sometimes underlies people's willingness to compromise. "But many of those who seek a middle way in these matters," Cohen noted, "do so not in a spirit of compromise but because they genuinely believe that the middle way is the morally right way .... To formulate some middle path is not so difficult, but to give a consistent and rational defense of a middle path proves to be very difficult indeed." One might first entertain a conserva tive Moderate view, perhaps in an effort to err on the side of caution while still servative disagreement becomes maniegg combine to form a new and unique acting reasonably. Such a position would fest, for the Conservative replies that, set of DNA, a new person has effectively still hold "that killing the fetus is a great come into existence. After all, the argusince the fetus is a person, society must moral wrong," Cohen suggested, alreject abortion on the same grounds as ment runs, a zygote becomes a fetus, though it would permit of exceptions which in turn becomes a human being, slavery. Although Liberals might respond when the pregnancy threatened the by reiterating their denial of the fetus' and as nothing is added in the meantime, mother's life of when it had resulted personhood, such a tactic fails to salvage one must conclude that a person has from rape or incest. their tolerance-based argument. been present since conception, albeit in a "Pregnancy caused by incest or rape, less-than-fully-developed state. The Liberal's argument in this case is say these Moderates, is so cruelly unfair circular, Cohen explained, because it "This argument, I submit, is serito the mother that to compel her to bring ously defective," reflected Cohen. "It is "urge(s] the toletation of certain acts on the fetus to term under such circumthe assumption that the denial (of a fetus'. bad because it rests on a misunderstandstances is unconscionable," Cohen expersonhood] is true." This Liberal arguing of scientific report and it is bad beplained. ment fails, in other words, because the cause its use of science in moral arguIn such cases, conment is confused." truth of the conclusion is presumed in servative Moderates the argument's premises; it specifically The argument fails Conservatives who "defend their [arguement's1 wish to allow the assumes that the moral matter at stake for the former reason, mother to choose the fundamental premise with reasoning based upon concerns only the mother, yet it seeks to Cohen explained, becourse of action which prove precisely that abortioo is a woman's cause it is untrue that science which is a parody of the science it purports she deems is the lesser prerogative because no one else is afnothing is added to the to apply will, in the end, be hoist by their own of two evils. fected by her choice. zygote or the fetus as they "This argument is Uberals, of course, might present develop. A human is petard." arguments which purport to show that a much more than a mere -Pro"essor Carl Cohen bad,'~ .said Coh.e~, 'J' "and ltIS as bad as ltIS fetus is not a person.路 But such efforts "tangle of DNA," said common. If abortion is have been uncommon, according to Cohen, but the argument morally wrong because it is the killing of Cohen: "There is, I think, a widespread it assumes that a fetus has the same moral "supposes that the fertilized egg is a very an innocent human person, then it resmall ball of extraordinary wisdom, status as a person, but rather that it emunwillingness on the part of Liberals to mains wrong and unjustifiable no matter be forthright about this matter - a wide- . somehow unwinding to produce human ploys the wrong kind of evidence in its how that innocent person came to be." spread unwillingness ... to confront exbrain or muscle in accord with an organic attempt to ascertain the moral status of a No amount of misconduct by the pressly the moral status of the fetus." fetus. plan which is already pre-determined." innocent child's parents, "including the Liberals, however, have no moScience, then, proves to be a futile In fact, however, although a zygote's [possible] rapacity of its father," Cohen nopoly on poor argumentation. Conserroute of appeal for those who would DNA places limits upon what may evolve vatives often argue that the unborn child elaborated, can justify the taking of that from it, myriad factors (including forcondemn abortion as the killing of a huis a "human person" from the moment of person's life. If the fetus is really a person eign substances, cells' positions within man person. The Conservative, thereconception, and conclude that because it from the moment of conception, then in the zygote, and cellular interaction) affore, must develop a sound defense d his no way could whatever burdens it may is wrong to kill deliberately (except in fect the zygote's development. premise that a fetus is a human person (if certain dire circumstances), abortion is his argument is to succeed), but the libNot all of the processes which the Continued on next page almost always wrong. dividing cells undergo, furthermore, can eral must refrain from begging that very

Continued from Page 1

Unlike the Liberal argument, this one is "good in form," Cohen said, yet it is mg." specifically the "unborn child." One besmirched in a different way. The truth must not be permitted, the Conservative of the first and fundamental premise (that the unborn child is a human person from argues, "under the flag of personal morality to kill an innocent person." conception onward), which is a prereqThe same relativistic argument for uisite for the argument's soundness, is widespread tolerance of abhorrent prachighly questionable. Because religiOUS tices, Conservaarguments in tives might add, support of any was used to jus-It seems ridiculous to assert such premise tify slavery; one are highly disthat a 24 week-old fetus in could seek to preputable and sel1972 had fewer or fundamenserve the "right" dom persuasive to keep slaves by for those not altally different rights than an. arguing that among identical fetus born in 1992. A ready slaves, being less the Conservathan human, do being's rights, if it has any, tive choir, Connot factor into the servatives often depend on and are derived moral equation. resort to citing from that being's nature The Liberal, of scientific evicourse, will reply dence about the they do not ebb and flow that because genetic history with the tide of technology. slaves are obviof a fetus in orously people and der to establish not mere fetuses, the Conservative's its moral status. reductio ad absurdum rejoinder fails. This widely-heard scientific arguHere the heart of the Liberal/Conment maintains that when sperm and

be explained solely by reference to the cells' DNA. Retinoic acid, for example, moves across the surfaces of dividing cells and dramatically affects their growth. Other clinical evidence - such as the consideration that two fertilized eggs can combine into one healthy zygote - also militates against the Conservative's interpretation of the scientific data. Conservatives who "defend their [argument's] fundamental premise with reasoning based upon science which is a parody of the science it purports to apply will, in the end, be hoist by their own petard," Cohen concluded. The second shortCOming of the Conservative's scientific argument results from its confusion of personhood, a moral category, with being a human, a scientific category. The Conservative argument relies not only on the premise that it is almost always wrong to kill but also on the equivocation of fetus and person. "But," noted Cohen, "genetic science, as I have just argued, does not warrant the claim that the embryo is a human~~~ being. And it is not even remotely -withlfl the power of science ever to discover ... whether an embryo is a human person possessing rights, because what characteristics are essential to the presence of a human person is a deep philosophical question whose answer cannot take the form of an empirical report." Not only, then, does the Conservative argument misinterpret scientific evidence, but it illicitly predicates personhood of the fetus without any moral justification whatsoever. The problem with the argument is not merely that

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December 2, 1992

THE MICHIGAN REVIEW

Music

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Pushing Snazzle Razzle Goofy Cake by Drew Peters

"We're basically four guys without a clue. There was no idea for our sound. We're all totally different musicians. But when we get together, it's like snazzle razzle goofy cake," said vocalist/ guitarist Ben McMillian's of his four piece band, Grunt! 'Uck. The band is composed of four stars of the Seattle underground: Skinyard's Ben McMillan and Norll)an Scott, Tom Niemeyer, formerly of The Accused, and Napalm Beach's Tim Paul. Gruntruck's sound is consequently slightly familiar and partially predictable. Every tune has the eerily grungy twinge of Soundgarden, with an occasional tint of Helmet's heavy groove. At times, even Ben's vocals resemble those of Temple of the Dog/Soundgarden crooner Chris Cornell. But aside from the extreme similarities, Gruntruck can still crank some catchy riffs. The band's members are more than pleased with their new release, Push, but

Continued from previous page cause justify its murder. The only possible situations that might justify abortions would be those wherein would-be mothers' lives are threatened by the pregnancy, Cohen concluded, and even that [judgement] is not so clear." Moderates of a liberal inclination, in contrast, deny that the fetus is a person, or at least that it is a full person. Unlike the conservative-leaning moderates, therefore, they can "defend a middle course without abandoning fundamental conditions [of their beliefs1" observed Cohen. In order to tread this mean successfully, however, liberal moderates "must either (a) give a plaUSible account of this indeterminate moral nature of the fetus or (b) give an accou'ht of some change in the moral status of the fetus during its development that renders a different set of rules applicab!e after that moral change takes place. One approach to this project begins by dividing the gestation period into temporal or developmental segments. Typically, some time is specified prior to which abortion is permissible but after which "the protection of the fetus is morally appropriate or perhaps morally required." The most commonly employed criterion for such gestation division is the fetus' Viability. Viability is usually attained during the late-middle segment of gestation, for at that time a fetus can

already fear that they will have a hard time topping it. "We're ecstatic with the album! Ya

don't know if we have it in us. It's pretty scary being a musician, because you can't just tum on the creativity when you need

The mellow musicians who are Gruntruck know, we don't go jerkin' off on our own pains, but it is a good album, and we know it," explained Ben. "We're actually very worried, because we haven't written a new song for the next album yet and we

it."

often survive outside the womb provided that it receives the appropriate intensive care. Thereafter, the argument asserts, "the moral rules pertaining to [the fetus] change," said Cohen. The governing morality changes in such a way that when a fetus attains Viability, abortion is no longer the mother's prerogative for it has ceased to be a morally permissible option (except, perhaps, in cases wherein the mother's life is seriously threatened). Despite the popularity of such a viability criterion (witness Roe and, more recently, Casey), there is ample reason to doubt its cogency. "I contend, for your examination, that the reasoning that underlies the use of viability in this wayfor the purposes of segmenting the pregnancy - is often muddled," said Cohen. The central issue - and the one which advocates of a viability standard often neglect to address - is "what [precisely] it is about being viable that gives to the life of the fetus a moral status that it did not have before it was viable." One tempting reply might be that once the fetus achieves Viability, doctors are able to care for it outside of the womb - a feat which would have been impossible, by definition, if the fetus were in its pre-viable stage. But as Cohen pointed out, "What has our ability to sustain the fetus outside of the mother's womb done to alter [the fetus'] moral status? The moral relevance of viability remains to be explained." Another tantalizing rejOinder might

be that by becoming viable, the fetus acquires a kind of independence which enhances its moral status. Yet as a newborn is plainly not independent from its parents, it is absurd to suggest that an even younger child could be. The independence defense fails even if independence is construed as the fetus' ability to survive (given proper care) outside the womb, for such a reformulation only forces one to wonder anew what doctors' ability to sustain the fetus outside the womb has to do with the fetus' moral status. Alternatively, the viability criterion might be defended in connection with the state of modern technology. New medical techniques, one might claim, alter our responsibilities to the fetus: Because doctors can sustain or "protect" a fetus of a given age outside the womb, it must be granted equal protection even if it continues to reside within its mother. But here too the now-familiar quandary arises - can changes in our technology and medical capacities alter a fetus' rights? It is unclear how this could be so, given any intelligible notion of rights and especially any notion of a staid, universal morality. "If [the fetus] is of such a nature that it is entitled to protection when separable [from its mother1 then it is of such a nature as to deserve that protection when not separable," Cohen explained. Moreover, as technology has progressed, the age of viability has decreased

In 1990, Gruntruck released Inside Yours on eMpTy Records. After being Signed to Roadrunner, the band remixed the album, added two songs, and released

it again. But Ben adds that Inside Yours is "light years different from Push. Tommy finally learned how'to play the guitar. Actually, we just had three years to grow up. Push is a great deal harder and heavier." The band has not reaped the rewards of rock n' roll stardom quite yet (McMillan just recieved a royalty check for $1.87), but the tour with Alice in Chains and The Screaming Trees can be expected to help the band considerably. ''The response has been phenomenal. Usually openers are dissed, but about halfway through our first tU'1e the audience loses it. From there on in it's a cake walk. We're not pretentious, we shoot from the hip. Kids are into that." Gruntruck prefQIllled to a sold-out st. Andrew's Hall last night with Alice in Chains and The' Streaming Trees. Tonight's show isalsq sold out.

,..

Drew Peters is a freshman in LSA and hardcore buttkicker for the Review. ~

at the rate of approximately one week per decade for several decades. (Currently the age stands at. about 24 weeks.) Consequently, a fetus considered viable today might not have been considered viable 20 years ago. But it seems ridiculous to assert that a 24 week-old fetus in 1972 had fewer or fundamentally different rights than an identical fetus born in 1992. A being's rights, if it has any, depend on and are derived from that being's nature - they do not ebb and flow with the tide of technology. Professor Cohen discussed several other strategies for defining limited sets of abortion rights,but as one would expect, many of the same dilemmas and worries continuously resurfaced. But Professor Cohen's project was not limited to debunking deceptively appealing but pitifully deficient arguments: As he summarized his argt1ments, it became clear that certain. argumentative strategiessirnply cannQt achiev-e what their proponents hope,; therh .•·tPt Likewise, Cohen's criticisms iluminated.the centralissues which.have ruthertoreceived too little'attention. As Bro£eMor Cohen put it, "Thinking about how argument goes wrong help? us to see how to make it right."

0;,.

Adam DeVore is a senior in Spanish and honors philosophy and the editorin-cltief of the Review.

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THE MICHIGAN REVIEW

December 2. 1992

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Crusty's Corner

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Kyuss: The Best for Raw, Swampy Grooves I have always been a sucker for a heavy, swampy guitar riffs with walloping, thick grooves, and so few bands are socking it to me at the momentito. My dream album would be a John Lee Hooker-Black Sabbath collaboration, but that is kinda like Bruce Springsteen

Big Chief and Monster Magnet are making music that is something dose to my craving, and Soundgarden and Alice in Chains have ventured into sludgeblues on occasion, but Kyuss comes as d ose as any band has yet to come to my fantasy recording. Kyuss (rhymes with pious) is no blues band - in fact, they sound as much like John Lee Hooker as does Madonna, but they play their music with a good dose of my favorite ingredient - a raw groove heard on each and every Hooker LP. Their second record, A'

Kyuss members drmanstrate what happens whm you really, rrolly crank Blues for the Red Sun.

making listenable music-it just isn't going to happen.

Blues for the Red Sun, is quite a

thwack of post-Sabbath riffing. Spiritual and always heavy, the album is a sure nit

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drums, Denison's twangy guitars and Sims' drOning, hypnotic bass lines. The music is dark and very freaky, alternating between pulsating hard core and guitar driven, drug- induced aural haze. "Gladiator," Liar's second track, perfectly displays the pounding havoc and the d istorted mumbling that have become the core of the band's distinct sound. There is not much in the way of lyrics on this record, but that does not matter it's punk rock, what do you expect? The Jesus Lizard will be appearing at the Majestic Theater in Detroit on December 12. Heard that the show at the Marquee last October was pretty wild, so don't miss vour second chancE'.

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killing off old man Fidel? Yeah, I know it's only a hannless rap song, but let's see who's brains end up hangin', amigo ... Fans of urban-contemporary powder-puff disco will be glad to know that a few new records have been released by Detroit area artists. Oliver Who? has released his debut of wimpy dance R&B entitled Shaka Who Who on Zoo Entertainment, and Ichiban Records is pushing the new one from Mind ... Music biz guru Rick Rubin, the man who brought you the Beastie Boys, The Red Devils, and the Black Crowes, has created another label for young hip-hop artists called ill Records. Both Pretty Tone Capone and Art of Origin have released hard core singles on the new label.

Jesus Lizard's Second Coming by Joe Epstein When I listen to The Jesus Lizard's new release, my roommate pisses, moans and calls it garbage. Guitarist Duane Denison, drummer Mac McNeilly, bassist David Sims and Singer David Yow would probably smile and pat each other on the back. Yow babbles while the rest of the band smack together tight, loud, ferocious arrangements. Veterans of the Chicago underground, these noise mongers call their music "HIGH DECIBEL DERRING-DO." Go figure. All bullshit aside, The Jesus Lizard rock. Like a monster, they claw and pummel with McNeilly's thundering

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for fans of contemporary slow, low, and heavy rock n' roll ... Sleeping with the Enemy is the new album from Frisco rapper Paris, and a tune about a fantasy attempt on the life of the president, "Bush Killa," has been the talk of the town. (" All I wanna see is mother fuckin' brains hangin,'" raps Paris.) The FBI has jumped all over his ass, but I've got to admit that I like the record. It is consistently funky and lyrically interesting to say the least. I've come to find out that Paris, a college graduate with a degree in economics, recently took a trip to Cuba and met Fidel Castro. The rapper was apparently impressed by Cuban society and said that "it was heartwarming to see a government that's not based on greed." Paris, why don't you catch the next flight to Havana and sing a little ditty about

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