THE MASCULINE LABEL

Why should young women graduating from college be given the degree of Bachelor of arts, science, housekeeping, and what not? An editorial in the New York Times suggests the degree of Spinster of dentistry, architecture, and all the other subjects which women now feel it necessary to pursue. Here is a subject to which the Lucy Stone League might well devote a few spare moments, instead of trying to preserve the maiden names of married ladies against the machinations of cruel passport officers.

If ever there were a case which justified drastic action by Lucy Stoners, it is that of the false masculine labelling in degrees conferred on women. After four years spent in tireless pursuit of an education, the sweet girl graduate proves to have done mere man's work, instead of getting herself ready for the great jumping-off place of marriage. There is nothing distinctive about it--for even cap and gown are similar to those worn by men.

In spite of the well-intentioned efforts of the New York Times, however, one suspects that militant feminists will not rush to demand the degree of Spinster of arts. The Bachelor label is of approved standing, and conveys definite significance. Without it, how could women ever be sure that they had been really educated? Even with this label, some of them must have their doubts.