Neo-Nazis

Re “Obsessed With Its Nazi Past, Germany Misses Neo-Nazis,” Opinion, Dec. 21: Jacob Heilbrunn believes that Germany is so obsessed with its past that it is unaware of current neo-Nazi groups. Clearly Heilbrunn is deeply out of touch.

Any thoughtful observer knows that the German government takes a far more aggressive stance against these fringe groups than the U.S. does. In fact many knowledgeable analysts feel that Germany may be starting to do too much. After all, even groups with the most contemptible attitudes have the right to freedom of speech.

I don’t mind Heilbrunn making snap judgments about a country he obviously doesn’t understand. My concern is this kind of hysterical reporting may encourage Germany to move in the wrong direction.

TIM TRUBY

Los Angeles