Abstinence fails sex-ed
Joseph Groff’s letter, “Focus on abstinence helpful,
not wasteful,” (Viewpoint, Oct 14.) demonstrates a clear lack
of understanding not only of the realities of sex education but
also of what it means to be a human being. The point of Keith
Southman’s submission (“Abstinence focus dangerous for
teens,” Viewpoint, Oct. 10) and of those who oppose
abstinence-focused sex education programs is twofold.
One, there is no evidence that such programs are effective in
reducing teen sexual activity and pregnancies, while there is
definite evidence that comprehensive programs (including
abstinence, contraceptives, etc) reduce these.
Two, if teenagers are only taught to abstain, then those who
choose not to abstain will be lacking crucial information about
protection and may be more likely to put themselves at risk.
It’s preposterous to think that just telling teenagers,
“don’t have sex,” actually works. We human beings
are still very much subject to the influence of our evolutionary
history. Reproduction (begotten by sex) is also an incredibly
strong and important drive in our survival. Thus, regardless of the
morals imposed on young people, regardless of their personal
character, they are still humans and many of them will have sex,
whether you like it or not.
It’s fine to hold ideals of abstinence until marriage and
to try to teach teenagers this; but to assume each and every teen
will indeed abstain simply because they are told to, and to thus
withhold additional sex education from them is downright ignorant
and certainly harmful to their health.
Jason Finley Fifth-year, cognitive science
Toledo’s play-calling falls short
There were three critical mistakes in Saturday’s football
game against Oregon during the fourth quarter.
The fake field goal attempt, the intentional grounding penalty
and the missed field goal.
Two of the three were Toledo’s fault.
Yes, the last field goal attempt was also his fault. Why
didn’t he center the attempt with a run on third down instead
of passing and forcing Griffith to kick from the right hash mark?
This is a big disadvantage for a right-footed kicker.
When is the administration going to start looking for a new
coach? This has happened more than just a couple of times.
Morris Benoun UCLA alumnus, Class of 1972