To understand the nature of the liberal arts college and its function in our society, it is important to understand the difference between education and training. Training is intended primarily for the service of society; education is primarily for the individual. Society needs doctors, lawyers, engineers, and teachers to perform specific tasks necessary to its operation, just as it needs carpenters and plumbers. Our training centers---the professional and trade schools---fulfill these needs.

   Although education is for the improvement of the individual, it also serves the society by providing a leavening of men and women of understanding, of perception and wisdom. They are our intellectual leaders, the critics of our culture, the defenders of our free traditions, the instigators of our progress. They serve the society by examining its function, appraising its needs, and criticizing its direction. They may be earning their livings by practicing one of the professions, or in pursuing a trade, or by engaging in business enterprise. They may be rich or poor. They may occupy positions of power and prestige, or they may be engaged in some humble employment. Without them, however, the society either disintegrates or else becomes an anthill.