Has the Public Official an Obligation to Restrict His Friendships

The public interest and tactical considerations require (and should require) a public official to control his friendships, though friendship as well as merit can and perhaps should be taken into consideration in political appointment. In general, the person in public life may find that he hears only one point of view from his friends; if he wishes to appear unbiased and be less biased he should deliberately include persons of divergent viewpoints among his acquaintances. The author finds a limited meaning in "guilt by association" and states his preferences. Dr. Dexter is an independent consultant and researcher in political science who has worked for both Republican and Democratic candidates; his address is 536 Pleasant St., Belmont, Mass

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