in their words
THE AUTHO R IS A DUK E P RO F E SSO R OF ME DICINE A ND IMMUN OLOGY WH O HAS LIVE D IN D URH A M S IN CE THE L AT E ’ 7 0 S .
Our Town and Gown Relations, Pt. 1 B Y DAV I D S . P I S ET S KY, M.D., PH.D.
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VER SINCE THE FIRST STUDENT traveled to learn from an eminent scholar, the relationship between universities and surrounding municipalities has been a source of tension that goes under the umbrella term “town-gown relationships.” In this iconic dyad, the gown part dates from medieval times when scholars and students wore gowns; apparently, way back then, academics had minor clerical status and donned outfits similar to those of the clergy. Regardless of the academic roots, in olden times, town-gown relations could turn ugly. The St. Scholastica Day riot in 1355 started with a dispute by students in a tavern in Oxford, England, and led to violent clashes that left almost 100 dead. Thankfully, things aren’t that bad anymore, but the source of town-gown friction should come as no surprise. The make-up of a university often – always? – diverges from that of the community. At