Kissinger and Nixon
Former President Nixon is to be commended in his address to the World Affairs Council for recommending that (1) American foreign policy toward the Soviet Union be built on mutual respect and that (2) both countries avoid the “insane” continuation of the nuclear arms race.
I would like to add a third recommendation--that the two countries learn from one another.
The Soviets fear the autonomy of the individual, which can destroy the well-being of society. If one person is allowed to control half the oil of Texas, the freedom of many to have their share is taken away. Americans fear any society that represses civil liberties. The Soviets focus on economic rights, the right of each person to have adequate medical care, a place to live, and enough to eat. Americans focus on the political rights of free speech and assembly. Both sides are quick to name the sins of the other. The Soviets are aware of our ghettos; we are aware of their camps for political dissidents.
A great prophet made a statement many years ago and, while he meant it to apply to individuals, the statement could well apply to nations--”Let he who is without sin cast the first stone.”
JEAN TRACY
El Monte
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