‘Incompetents at Helm of State’

McFarlane raises a critical issue--that every American’s welfare is inextricably tied to what happens overseas, and that we haven’t realized it yet. I would take it a step further, and say that we also do not realize that it is in our best interest to work to improve the welfare of those around us. We will continue to prosper if other countries do.

I agree with McFarlane that it is important at this stage that the issue be raised, but I believe he is asking the wrong questions. He asks what has happened to the institutions that are charged with this responsibility, why hasn’t Congress addressed these larger questions, and why hasn’t the press prodded. The question that should be asked is why aren’t we, the people, concerned and involved.

In this country, the institutions reflect the attitudes of our people. It is our responsibility for what is happening in our government and how it affects the rest of the world. There is an urgent need for each one of us to question, to seek the truth, and to participate. I wonder what is needed to make this happen.

JACK WEIL

Woodland Hills