 Some of the more established scientists, such as Max von Laue, could demonstrate more autonomy than the younger and less established scientists.This was, in part, due to political organizations, such as the NSDDB, whose district leaders had a decisive role in the acceptance of an "Habilitationsschrift", which was a prerequisite to attaining the rank of "Privatdozent" necessary to becoming a university lecturer.While some with ability joined such organizations out of tactical career considerations, others with ability and adherence to historical academic standards joined these organizations to moderate their activities.