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St. Cloud State University
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Commentary
Magazines don’t reflect SCSU’s values
Published:
Monday, September 30, 2002
The Atwood Council is responsible for shaping the image of Atwood, from the color of walls to the location of student organizations and kiosks.
Now the council is considering a change in another aspect of Atwood’s interior: the contents of the magazine stands.
Magazines such as Cosmopolitan, Stuff and Maxim have been criticized by some students, faculty and visitors who are reportedly offended by the provocative images on the magazines’ covers.
While it is understandable that the Atwood Council would like to be considerate of all the students,faculty and visitors passing through Atwood, the reason for even considering the removal of these publications must be clearly identified.
One concern expressed by members of the council is the message they fear the presence of the magazines may be sending about the university’s values.
The message these magazines send is that the university, even during times of often extreme political correctness, retains its identity as a marketplace of ideas.
The presence of the magazines does not take away from the schools accredited programs, clubs, or athletics.
Removing the magazines really isn’t a viable option, because it is the only option that will negatively alter the public’s perception of what the university values.
Covering up the fronts of the magazines is another option the council will consider. However, it is equivalent to the university putting on blinders as though if the images aren’t seen, they aren’t there. This promotes the value of ignorance as bliss.
Besides, ultimately,it is the students who reflect the values of the university, not the magazines a university allows to be sold.
SCSU has a lot to be proud of: a strong curriculum; talented, well educated professors; a vastly diverse community; and, accredited programs. These are the values that matter, and are reflected by more than just magazines.
The opinions expressed on the Commentary and Opinions pages are not necessarily those of the college, university, system or student body.
