Responsibility

In response to Daniel Temianka’s letter (Sept. 15) regarding the death of Baseball Commissioner Bart Giamatti, the tobacco companies are not responsible for smokers; they are in fact the result. Providers of anything who do not ostensibly encourage use are not responsible for the bad habits of others. Distillers are not responsible for the overindulgence of some drinkers. Indeed, even drug suppliers are not, per se, responsible for drug use.

When will we face up to this primary and obvious fact--hold users themselves responsible, and legalize all drugs, under separate programs similar to our present alcohol regulations? Of course, all advertising of any drug should be prohibited.

PETER FALSTRUP

Rancho Santa Fe