Sharing Blame of ‘Moral Mutants’

Perhaps Josephson’s study has confused a proliferation in the number of young people willing to cheat to get ahead today with an increase in the number of those willing to confess their transgressions because of the pervasive atmosphere of acceptance of this behavior.

The popular support that Lt. Col. Oliver North received for the self-reported testimony of his participation in acts of deceit involving the U.S. military is certainly a barometer that indicates that our country’s ethical standards are somewhat less than gale-force.

Tough prosecution of those perpetrators of larceny and fraud responsible for the savings and loan debacle--the majority of whom well exceed the 18-30 age range, by the way--would be a monumental deterrent to those who do fall into that category.

Lying and cheating are not acceptable vehicles on the road to success. That is the message we must project loud and clear to people of any age.

MAUREEN NEY

Los Angeles