between its founding and 1841, the society is said to have followed the template of other debating societies, although operating under "masonic secrecy," according to 19th century yale historian ebenezer baldwin. in conjunction with linonia and the calliopean society, brothers in unity was noted by baldwin to discuss "scientific questions" and gravitate towards "literary pursuits." this is substantiated by the brother's own public documentation, which denotes that the society sought "lofty places in science, literature, and oratory" fields, as well as general "intellectual improvement."