Falling college support

As a university professor who teaches about student loans and bankruptcy, I know of the growing burden of student loan debt. I was saddened, but not surprised, by the college student wanting "the government" to provide more support to higher education ("Priced out of college," Forum, Nov. 23).

How sad that she does not recognize the impact of the rabid anti-tax sentiment of Utah's dominant political party. The politicians and voters fail to appreciate that an investment in human capital will benefit all of society.

She fails to make the connection between the politicians her parents, grandparents, friends and neighbors have been electing for decades and the downward spiral in support for higher education.

She wants the benefits of taxpayer dollars but not the responsibility of contributing to the collective good. Perhaps she learned that from Utah politicians who rant against the federal government and taxes but grab every dollar of federal disaster aid when fire or flood strikes.

Alas, she may graduate with a degree but not an education. During the coming semester break, to make the most of her investment I recommend she read Ken Bain's book What the Best College Students Do.

Jean M. Lown

Logan