U.S. Arms Sales

Your article says, “For the first time, the (Clinton) policy sets the economic health of the American arms industry as an explicit objective of overseas weapon slaves” (Feb. 18). What a priority! Indeed: “Clinton just doesn’t seem to mind continuing the United States’ role as the No. 1 merchant of death,” said a disarmament campaign organizer.

Just when will the U.S. reassume its focus and reputation as the epitome of “civilization”? “It is too difficult to think nobly when one only thinks of making a living” (Rousseau). And this related (current and Bush era) imprimatur seems to be in focus: “It is easier to make war than peace” (Clemenceau).

DON PERLEY

Yorba Linda