University Motto And Arms

Press, Volume XCIX, Issue 29205, 16 May 1960, Page 3

University Motto And Arms

Sir,—Professor Pocock’s verity has acquired a capital V, and the argument has been translated to a theological plane. I shall not try to compete in sophistry. On a question of Latinity, reasonable men will prefer the word of Cicero to that of the professor. Or, if a poet’s verdict be sought, Horace might almost have anticipated this very debate when he wrote, of his “university education.”: Adiecere bonae paullo plus artis Athenae. Scilicet ut vellem curvo dinoscere rectum Atque inter silvas Academi quaerere verum.—Yours etc., G. V. SUMNER. May 14, 1960.

Sir, —It seems to me that “exquirere,” because of its association with such words as “inquiring.” “inquisitive,” is a better word than “petere.” But surely it is possible to find something more suitable for the motto of a university than “Disce veritatem exquirere,” which reads like a maxim from the commonplacebook of some sceptical philosopher. For it should be borne in mind that some thinkers have fhat-twth. is elusive; as the crock of gold at'tbe Rainbow’s end. In their view, man should be eVer seeking truth though he has no hope of finding, it. It would be a pity if the university, by adopting the proposed motto, seemed to lend countenance to this view; for the truth is attainable. and it is quite important to have attained it, as the undergraduate discovers when he has to face an examination in chemistry or history. If there is to be a change, what about “Ante omnia veritas”?—Yours etc., G.H.D. May 15, 1960.