Life — January 27, 1927 — page 9: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Collegiate Impressions—No. 1: The Annual Indifference Test at Harvard This satirical cartoon depicts Harvard student life, showing various campus scenes labeled with student types: "Gilda Gray" (likely referencing the popular 1920s dancer), "Jake Slagle" (unclear reference), and "Not intrigued" figures. The central joke involves two academics in robes at the bottom discussing a student's indifference, with one remarking "I think that student deserves an A+, Mister Lowell" to which another responds "Absolutely, Mister Cabot, his indifference is Superb." The satire mocks Harvard's reputation for cultivating aristocratic detachment and apathy among wealthy students—suggesting that indifference itself becomes an academic virtue worthy of top grades. This reflects early 20th-century critiques of elite universities prioritizing social standing over intellectual engagement.