Lack of Patriotism and Growth of Spying in U.S.
I must comment on the article by Paul Craig Roberts (Editorial Pages, Nov. 19), “Why U.S. Spying Grows: Patriotism Takes a Back Seat to Special Interests.”
The recent flood of spy scandals is not due to any lack of patriotism of any segment of the American people--it seems that Roberts is inferring that the disaffection of blacks and Latinos with the Reagan Administration’s policies might be a factor (How many black or Latino spies have we had lately?)
Spying is not caused by lack of commitment of people to their government; if we disagree with our present Administration we can vote it out if we wish, not to weaken our nation by selling military information.
None of the above, Mr. Roberts. The plain cause of spying in our country is pure greed. Our traitors are as American as motherhood and apple pie. Their patriotism is described by the title of a recent best-seller: “Looking Out for No. 1.”
The present Administration shows in every way it can that money talks and is the power in this country. Every action that it takes favors the very rich over everyone else in this country. With this moral guide is it any wonder that 100% patriotic Americans are out for the money they can get by spying?
HOWARD DeVORKIN
Santa Monica
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