Ethos: the spirit of a culture or era.

While Iowa State’s magazine, “Ethos,” once provided students with an opportunity to have their work published and build a portfolio, it has, unfortunately, turned into a sleazy magazine full of sexual innuendoes, gossip and inappropriate language.

Not only does this prevent students from having decent materials to show future employers, but it leaves readers wondering if our generation will ever be able to learn the difference between right and wrong. Crossing the line by toying with low-level topics does not exhibit the kind of class some of us would like to portray.

If “Ethos” is the display of what our culture is all about, then Iowa State has just been demoted to a new level of filth.

According to the December issue of “Ethos,” our culture is characterized by self-indulgence and an absence of moral consciousness; we are annoyed by our families, captivated by cruel, anonymous gossip and thrilled by the idea of casual sex in the library. Furthermore, people who want to study in the quiet tiers of the library are “creepy” and the only reasons to enjoy the holidays at home are presents, free food and money.

“How to Survive the Family” provides seven helpful hints to avoid spending quality time with the people who love you most. Instead of texting friends to whine on Christmas, maybe the article should tell you to set down your cell phone for once and engage grandma in a meaningful conversation. Although she may smell like “century-old perfume,” she probably knows a thing or two about living and has some interesting stories to tell — without needing to rely on alcohol for charisma.

The largest article in Ethos is about Juicy Campus, a Web site that is an utter disgrace to our generation. The site lacks moral character, self-control, and an overall consideration for the feelings of others. So why give free advertisement to the joys of gossip and slander through a feature article?

‘Best of Ames’ calls attention to some sweet spots in town. Sadly, it also highlights the best places to “get sh*tfaced,” have sex on campus and is littered with curse words.

Apparently the ethos of our generation sees sex as one more meaningless pastime where we can get a little pleasure before moving on to our next, instant gratification. But don’t worry if you aren’t able to find someone to nail in the library, “Ethos” tells you the best place to drink yourself into oblivion for only three dollars.

While appalled by these articles, our underlying concern is not that a college magazine published a few trashy pieces, but that they may actually reflect the true ethos of Iowa State students.

Experiences in and out of the classroom at Iowa State should work towards the enhancement of our character. We’d like to be seen as more than individuals who are consumed by self-indulgent lifestyles, hurtful gossip, cheap alcohol, and meaningless sex.

Samantha Carlson

Junior

Pre-journalism and mass communication

Emily Eggleston

Senior

Agronomy

Environmental Studies

Erin Sexton

Senior

Animal Science