FUNCTION. The Whole Earth Catalog functions as an evaluation and access device. With it, the user should know better what is worth getting and where and how to do the getting. An item is listed in the CATALOG if it is deemed: 1) Useful as a tool, 2) Relevant to an independent education, 3) High quality or low cost, 4) Easily available by mail. PURPOSE. We are as gods, and may as well get used to it. So far remotely done power and glory - -as via government, big business, formal education, church - -has succeeded to point where gross defects obscure actual gains. In response to this dilemma and to these gains a realm of intimate, personal power is developing - -power of the individual to conduct his own education, find his own inspiration, shape his own environment, and share his adventures with whoever is interested. Tools that aid this process are sought and promoted by the Whole Earth Catalog.