It seems UT gave in to the Cancer Prevention Research Institute of Texas’ (CPRIT) blackmail concerning a possible $88-million cancer research grant for next year in exchange for banning tobacco. A better avenue would have been for all colleges and departments at UT that conduct cancer research to build their own place. They could make sure to satisfy all the requirements without affecting the University at large — and avoid having to justify it with a righteous argument about wellness. Any Texan would see the University’s actions as dishonest and un-American.

Remember, this policy is affecting those with a cultivated mind or seeking one, which is in itself the sole guardian of good. A campus should not need a smoke-free policy, but if it does, I wonder if CPRIT is questioning the minds of our academic and administrative staff and students. Let’s face it: Requiring such policy is in complete contradiction of its primary mandate, which is, according to the CPRIT website, to “attract, create or expand research capabilities of public or private institutions of higher education.”

Elyes Benhamou
Staff, Red McCombs School of Business