Our right to break the law?

I have found myself once again shaking my head in disbelief at the overwhelming student response to the decision made by the University to purchase several off-campus houses that frequently have been the scenes of some of the more outrageous parties to be held at Duke.

Columnists and letter writers alike seem to think that the administration is responsible for the occurrences of such off-campus parties, which everyone agrees are dangerous for a number of valid reasons.

I would like to point out, however, that the blame for Duke's dangerous "social scene" rests squarely on the shoulders of those participating in these events. People often overlook the fact that there are a great number of social outlets and parties that occur every week on campus. Apparently, the administration has made it too difficult for minors to obtain alcohol within Duke's walls, and the general debauchery prevalent in off-campus parties is simply too risqué to be allowed in an official, monitored party. This is not an indication that Duke University is trying to crush the social scene of the undergraduates; rather, this is a sign that the "social scene" has gone out of control. If you are worried about the danger of off-campus parties, then don't attend or endorse such events. The Duke student body must take full responsibility for any event sponsored by students.

I applaud the administration's efforts to salvage relations with our neighbors near campus, as well as their attempts to improve the image of Duke.

For the record, I was embarrassed by situation early last semester that resulted in so many citations from ALE. I am sure the majority of alumni and administrators felt much the same.

My advice to those who are so upset by Duke's purchase of these houses: Stop making your "right" to engage in illegal behavior an obligation of the administration.

David Wagner

Pratt '08