Harvard University's effect on American life is examined through investigation of its pervasive mystique, magnitude of power, fallacies, controversies, and its ramifications on both the national and international scenes. Viewed from its modest beginning in 1638 to the present, Harvard is described as "a multinational academic conglomerate, the think-tank of all think-tanks, a power center of astounding impact." Chapters examine: the undergraduate college; the Harvard Law School; the golden passport to the future; the graduate school's influence on government; the medical school; economic superstars; Harvard and the CIA elite; Harvard's social scientist; the graduate school of education; the Arab connection at Harvard; special fellows, eccentrics; and who runs Harvard. In conclusion, it is stated that the Harvard mystique is a strong reality that carries a powerful effect on American life. What is left to question is whether Harvard is worthy of the power it possesses. (LC)