Samuelson on Adolescence

I take issue with Samuelson’s column, where he gripes that parents do not exercise as much authority over their high school-aged children “as they once did.” When was that? Does he mean that he doesn’t? And since when does exercising authority teach self-discipline, the quality most taught by parental example.

He complains that schools “can’t enforce stiffer demands” in homework. How can enforcement teach anything but fear? Educated people are motivated by understanding, interest and respect for the subject.

As long as “economics” are telling us how to parent and teach, we will have to compensate for their mismanagement. It would be most helpful if our government leaders would take the responsibilities that come with freedom, and set an example of self-discipline to our nation.

SUSAN KNOX

Tustin