First founded by students for students, the college union traces its roots to debating societies in England. Over time, the college union idea has continued to evolve but is still closely tied to social and intellectual pursuits. "The College Union Idea" chronicles the philosophy and function of the college union. Much of the story is told principally through the writings and reflections of Porter Butts, the father of the college union movement. Butts began his involvement in the University of Wisconsin Union as a student leader campaigning for a facility and eventually becoming its first...