To every decision, one generally goes through a process of arguing between the Apollonian and Dionysian sides of one's mind. Questions of whether to act responsibly or enjoy rebellion bounce back and forth as one weighs the consequences of each choice. On college campuses, the Dionysian side is usually the one to win. This is exactly the outcome of the recent Apollonian versus Dionysian debate here at Centenary.

Every freshman as well as some other students and faculty gathered to witness six professors debate the proposition of placing a pub on campus. Surprisingly enough, the Apollonians were arguing in the affirmative, saying that with certain regulations, the pub would be relaxing and beneficial. They proposed mandatory attendance and supervised drinking. The Dionysians' arguments consisted of not wanting to be confined and regulated while drinking. How can one have supervised fun? It seemed like a contradiction in terms; one that the students did not like at all. After each side presented their argument, they were allowed rebuttals. Safety was emphasized by the Apollonians, while the Dionysians reminded the audience of freedom to choose. Once again the students followed their wild desires and sided with the Dionysians. The presence and numerous interjections of the choruses added to the debate. Their dress and manner helped exemplify the division between the two sides, with the Apollonians in coat and tie, and the Dionysians adorned in anything but. This visual aid made the debate more entertaining, and the quotes from the different works tied our class work to the debate.

The debate in general displayed the personalities of the different sides very well, although most people are more of a mixture than one extreme. In the end, the students voted say aye or nay, and the Dionysians won overwhelmingly.