Several Catholic universities have caused a stir recently by returning to traditional interpretations of morality. Earlier this year, Duke Cheston detailed the Catholic University of America’s commitment to its Catholic identity—and the university later caused a controversy by announcing its intention to return to single-sex dormitories. Two years ago, Belmont Abbey ran afoul of the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission when it stopped covering contraceptives in its faculty health care plan. In a climate of moral ambiguity, such decisions set these Catholic universities apart.
Of course, these policies are just one part of university regulation of behavior. Prior to 1960, in loco parentis policies restricting student behavior were common. From limitations on drinking, drugs, and even speech to strict curfews, most undergraduates were subject to some restrictions on their private lives. Today, such policies are rare—but perhaps ready for a resurgence.
What do you think?