The American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) cites both economic and noneconomic benefits of a college education in its criticism of current arguments that the value of a college education is declining. Richard Freeman and J. Herbert Holloman have asserted that the value of a college degree is decreasing because its "rate of return" has fallen. Among the arguments against the "rate of return" approach is the fact that high school graduates today make somewhat more money proportionately, than in the past, though still not nearly as much as college graduates. College graduates have a more continuous, less erratic job history, continue to earn higher salaries through most of their working years; are less likely to have to start over or get into deadend jobs; and are more satisfied with their work and their lives than noncollege graduates. The range of noneconomic benefits are cited for the individual graduates and for society. College graduates are better informed on political issues, more likely to register and vote, and to take a more active role in government; they are less likely to be influenced by prejudices and stereotypes; they are more likely to attempt rational and nonviolent solutions to problems. (JMF)