Critical Mass

On Wednesday I published a piece on the National Review Phi Beta Cons Blog about decency at Yale, discussing in particular an article that the Yale Daily News published entitled "Today's Women Can Reject Virginity Myth."

There is a new chapter in the story of Yale's continuing descent into the depths of moral degradation. Two days ago, Jonathan Holloway, the master of Calhoun College at Yale, sent out the following note:

"OK, well THIS is the most awkward college-wide e-mail I've ever had to send....

"The college showers are to be used by individuals for hygenic [sic] purposes only. They are not to be used by couples engaged in intimate activity--especially that kind of activity that leaves the showers in a decidedly less hygenic [sic] state.

"Several times since the start of the spring term some Hounies have come across a couple having the time of their lives in a shower stall. Last night the shower flooded and the bathroom could not be used for over 90 minutes. To the as yet unidentified couple, this may be pleasureable [sic] and exciting for you but it is a violation of community standards. Please stop.

"I really don't want to explore this matter any further as I respect your individual privacy. But such continued brazen public displays of affection will only invite public embarrassment. I beg of you, let's not go there."

 I can first of all confirm that this is a real memo, not a prank. It is not merely unfortunate but pathetic and disgusting that the Master needed to send such a note to us. I certainly wish that Master Holloway had not had to involve himself, but in the moral vacuum that has been created by Yale intellectuals, students seem to be left without even the most basic guidelines for proper and decent behavior.

- Dan Gelernter, class of '09 in Calhoun College at Yale