Professors’ Priorities

The tone of Kennedy’s statements and your editorial echo most recent discussions in implying that universities have overemphasized research in a self-interested pursuit of scholarly prestige and research funds. This may be partly true. However, it must be remembered that at present universities are the only institutions at which research in many fields (including some areas of science) can be pursued. There are few or no opportunities for employment in industry or in the government in these areas of scholarship.

Excellent teachers can find employment in liberal art colleges, state campuses with a teaching emphasis, and in secondary education--where their talents are sorely needed.

JOHN DAMUTH

Santa Barbara