Approaching the problem from the opposition's point of view and remembering that they are also people, according to Fisher, will lead to progress-ad hominem attacks often do more harm than good when trying to work towards a constructive solution.

Fisher suggests that PSLM draw up a chart from the administration's perspective to try to find a way that each side can emerge from the controversy politically "okay" with their constituencies. The PSLM could map the pluses and minuses from Harvard's point of view, Fisher says, both if Harvard gives in and if they stand firm so that PSLM can develop a greater understanding of the opposition's view.

The University also, according to Fisher, is also not handling the situation well. Fisher says Harvard should approach the issue from an educational standpoint. The standoff, he says, gives the University an opportunity to teach students about social change.

"It seems to me Harvard should have someone endlessly meeting with

students," he says. "Harvard's current [methods] are clearly not the best way to deal with educational matters with the students."

Fisher says the University should also look more positively on the protestors themselves. The University, he says, "should say, 'It's wonderful to have students engaged and not just drinking beer all the time. It's terrific...now let's consider the issues.'"

While the divide may be large between the two groups, there is not much

that can be accomplished unless they begin to communicate with each other.