Some time ago the Princetonian had occasion to comment on the existing system of probation in force in the University. Since that time we have been even more strongly impressed with the absurdity and childishness of this attempt to punish a man for failure to satisfy the University requirements. The inevitable conclusion is that the probation rule for all undergraduates except Freshmen must be done away with.

If it is considered impossible to take such a progressive step at present, at least the University authorities ought to be willing to put Princeton men on an equal footing with Yale and Harvard undergraduates. At these institutions, probation is inflicted on a man with the understanding that if by the middle of the term his work has shown improvement, he will be permitted to resume his activities in athletic or non-athletic pursuits. But at Princeton there is no incentive for a man on probation to work, except the threat of expulsion. His disqualification lasts for a whole term and he has no chance to make himself eligible by working hard.

If probation is intended as punishment, pure and simple, then let us admit that Princeton has not progressed beyond the high school stage and that its authorities still feel required to deal with the undergraduates as one disciplines a recalcitrant school boy. If probation is intended as a warning, as an incentive to study, then the present system is a lamentable failure. The psychology of offering a man eligibility in return for improvement in the classroom cannot be denied.

The abolition of probation is certain to come as Princeton becomes more of a University and less of a school. But until that time some step must be taken to remove this ridiculous handicap which we have imposed on Princeton men and Princeton activities. The Daily Princetonian.