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A MODERN LIBERAL EDUCATION
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cessful in their studies, should not be eligible—for example—to the distinction of Phi Beta Kappa, or to other similar distinctions. Now, speaking for myself, I certainly have no exaggerated estimate of the worth of titles or of membership in any form of learned societies. But I do care a great deal about the truth, and about maintaining in this country a high standard, a sound basis, and a comprehensive range, for the recipients of a liberal education. And in my opinion, anyone who claims that a larger amount of scholastic study of the physical and natural sciences can be substituted for studies in language and literature, so as to obtain in this way that kind of cultured mind which belongs to the intellectual freeman, is simply maintaining what, from the very nature of the case, cannot be made true. Neither bestowing nor withholding titles and membership in learned societies will alter the fundamental facts of the soul's life and development. Connected with these trifles, however, impressions and tendencies may be strengthened which will work a mischief to the cause of liberal education in this country from which it will not readily recover, even if a long time be allowed for the recovery.

I hasten at once, however, to say that prolonged scholastic training in mathematics and in the elements of the physical and natural sciences is also a necessary part of a truly liberal education.