#7, October 5, 2003

Eau Contraire

Now that it has been proclaimed abroad that “Ideology” is to be found exclusively at Strawbridge’s, Karl Mannheim readers want to know where that leaves us in our search for Utopia?

With the release of a new fragrance called “Eau Contraire”, historians may have formulated an answer to this vexing question. This fragrance has been developed at one of our leading universities, in what must be considered a departure from its history faculty’s strict pursuit of social scientific endeavors.

A marketing strategy has been developed also. A picture of a man dressed in jeans and tweed jacket sitting at his desk in a scholarly pose is accompanied by the text: “Nothing comes between this historian and his Calvin Kleins.” Beneath this emblazoned in bold, red text are the words, “Eau contraire!”

We wish this university great success in its new marketing venture and hope that the proceeds will lead to the creation of many more chairs for its senior faculty.

© Rob Gregg, 2003