Pacifism

George F. Will (Editorial Pages, Sept. 8) once again seems to be confused as to the nature and history of pacifism.

Will seeks the moral high ground for those who prefer violence (unless they seek freedom or social justice) by stating that pacifism “is a renunciation of all ideals in favor of a mere material thing, biological existence.”

The history of pacifism shows that nothing could be further from the truth. Christ, Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr., three well-known pacifists, all shook the world with their stands against violence. Their doing so certainly did not enhance their biological existence.

If Will is concerned with exposing cowardice, I suggest that he not point to those with the courage to resist evil with good but look long and hard at those who espouse violence from cozy Washington desks.

R. SCOTT SMITH

La Mesa