The unknown "we" behind the editorials

On Sept. 18, less than a week after Harvard announced that it was ending its early admission program, the Editorial Board of this newspaper argued in a favor of similar reform at Princeton. That afternoon, Princeton announced that it too was abandoning its early admission program and the day after that, the paper ran a lengthy story exploring the implications of the decision.

Such an occurence — an editorial is published, then a news story on the same topic, or vice versa — is not uncommon in our pages. Today's paper, for example, includes both a story on the USG's stance on referenda and an editorial suggesting a course of action on that very issue. That may lead some readers to ask whether the same people covering the news are the ones so publicly declaring their opinions on it. At the 'Prince,' the answer is, No.

Our reporters and editors strive for accuracy and fairness in their reporting, and to that end, the news-gathering departments and the Editorial Board are divided, each side independent from the other.

Three years ago the Editorial Board was created to serve as an independent and insightful voice of The Daily Princetonian. Since then, an unsigned editorial has appeared in the adjacent space every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, representing the opinion of the 'Prince' on various issues relevant to the University community. The members of the Editorial Board have represented the "we" that stands behind every editorial.

The board meets biweekly to discuss a wide range of issues — from USG election endorsements and SCORE modifications to campus visits by dignitaries and actions of Princeton alumni with international implications. From these debates spring the unsigned editorials, which are all written by board members. Opinions are decided by a majority vote, but members in the minority retain the right to publish dissenting editorials. Because the Editorial Board represents the voice of the 'Prince,' it attempts to preserve and continue the opinions of past boards. If opinions should change, however, the board will do its best to explain the reasons for its new perspective.

The 130th Managing Board is proud to continue the tradition of writing independent editorials. The current board consists of students from nearly all classes and backgrounds. As chair of the Editorial Board, Robby Braun '07 is charged with the task of running the Board and editing the opinions that will be published. A relative newcomer to the University, Vineeta Kamath '09 provides fresh perspective on campus issues. Our upperclassmen, slightly wiser, more experienced and jaded, weigh in heavily with their views. They include five juniors: Jonathan Fluger, Scott Moore, Pauline Yeung and Jordan Rodriguez and six seniors: Ben Massey, Matthew MacDonald, Jonah Perlin, Michael Reilly, Elizabeth Shutkin and Jean Yin.

As a body that is independent of the regular operations of the 'Prince,' the Editorial Board is responsible only to the editor-in-chief, Chanakya Sethi '07. To preserve the board's independence, no other editors or writers may contribute to the board, however loudly they might clamor.

While writing editorials is inherently an egotistical activity (after all, in each editorial the board ever-so-gently suggests that you, as readers, ought to agree with the published opinion), we hope that the editorials inspire thought and spark debate. Even if you should disagree with the board's stances, we will have done our job well if we encourages you to participate in debate. Supporters and critics alike are encouraged to write to us. If that venue fails to provide enough room for your opinion, apply to the Editorial Board. We are currently seeking applications from all students of any background. Email edits@dailyprincetonian.com for more details.

The Editorial Board "we" is not some vague pronoun that we hide behind but instead is a strong voice representing the views of a group of your peers. We hope future editorials will help students think deeply about the issues affecting their lives and look forward to the continued exchange of ideas and thoughts with our readers.

Robby Braun '07 is chair of the Editorial Board. Anna Huang '07 is executive editor for opinion. Today's "From the Editors" is the first of a series of columns which aim to clarify and explain the policies and practices of The Daily Princetonian in a dialogue with the campus community. If you feel that there is some aspect of the paper or a specific article which ought to be discussed here, please email edits@dailyprincetonian.com. We welcome your thoughts.