The National Council of the Arts, Sciences and Professions was called into existence by the facts of the cultural and political life around us. Its policy and program are determined by changes in the social world of which we are a part.
The artist, the scientist, the professional has traditionally been the custodian of our democratic heritage. Today it is our most sacred obligation and highest honor to defend that democratic tradition.
For the peace of the world is threatened. Science, which holds the promise of an abundant life, is being perverted into an instrument of mass destruction. Culture is being strangled by fear. Academic freedom is rapidly becoming an empty phrase.
As American intellectuals, it is our special responsibility to voice the people's concern for peace and protection of all our civil liberties.
We are determined that incendiaries shall not burn the Bill Of Rights. We are determined that our Negro colleagues shall take their full place in American life. We are determined that our creative talents shall not be used for war.
We shall work in concert with all Americans, regardless of political party, who are devoted to peace and a democratic future.
We call upon all artists, scientists and professionals to forge a broad alliance in defense of our country's honor and tradition.
Return to the article Edwin Berry Burgum (1894-1979)
"The Contemporary Reader" (editorial by Edwin Berry Burgum).
Kafka and the Bankruptcy of Faith, by Edwin Berry Burgum.
Text of Berry's testimony to the U.S. Senate, Senate Permanent Subcommittee.