Enquiry is a publication that consistently embodies its motto “free thought and discourse.” But in recent years, many have thought it was focused more on discourse, contradicting other opinions, rather than free thought. To much of the campus, Enquiry represents a publication that is simply contrary to the views of most students. While we do offer differing opinions that cut against the grain of prevailing campus thought, we also wish to fully exemplify our motto by providing the seeds of conversation. At times, it is necessary to cut against the grain of campus thought, but it is equally important to inspire new conversations rather than react to the campus zeitgeist. In previous editions, Enquiry has published articles ranging from literary criticism to the role of the Titanic in Gilded Age thought to a piece on Sophocles and Flannery O’Connor. We aim to continue our tradition of covering all viewpoints and a variety of topics.

Fundamentally, we are a campus publication dedicated to quality, rather than a publication dedicated to a viewpoint or cause. We encourage prospective authors to write no matter what their viewpoint. Whether our authors choose to write from a left- or right-wing stance on politics or choose to take a nonideological position on science, art, or society, we welcome all work if it meets our standard of quality.

Besides quality, we also expect our writers to have a something interesting to say and be willing to defend it. While the rare exception may be made for satirical or anonymous pieces, a thought put out into the void fails to uphold the crucial point of saying something. The topic may be obscure, but it should always provoke the reader to engage with the material and motivate them to start a conversation with the author or their peers. Enquiry is a platform allowing an opportunity to take part in free thought and to encourage discourse. Because of that, the opinions of its staff should not be the only ones, and the opinions of writers should not reflect on Enquiry.

Campus dialogue has always been less than friendly, but the moments where the exchange of ideas was genuine and friendly have been some of my most cherished experiences at Hamilton. They have always served as a source of learning and inspiration. Not only do I gain knowledge of a differing perspective, but I am inspired to continue reading and to further develop my understanding. There is a wealth of knowledge and experience that there’s no way to know about except through free thought and discourse. Without access to this, we are siloed and unaware of the possibilities that exist outside our horizon. Without free thought and discourse, a liberal arts education is impossible to achieve.

Under my leadership, I hope Enquiry will publish articles that continue to embody our motto. I wish to publish pieces that pique readers’ curiosity and create a welcoming dialogue for all to engage in. Living up to our motto, we will continue to run articles that inspire the reader to know about the unknown and discuss it with others. I encourage everyone who has a topic in mind to put it on paper and submit it.

Enquiry accepts articles of 500 to 800 words at jmadigan@hamilton.edu. Please be aware that we do not accept anonymous submissions.