Social Issues Are More Important Than Films

A surge of economic activity with high profits for a few is not necessarily the best measure of economic progress and prosperity [“Hollywood’s Starring Role,” April 24]. An even more important question is: What was the value of the product created?

There is no doubt that Hollywood movies are very popular and that we have devoted significant resources to creating them. Some of us feel, though, that they have helped bring about deterioration in our culture, especially in how we treat one another. Be that as it may, I think it obvious that there are other endeavors besides making movies that would result in a better product.

For example, we could use our productive strength to improve our highway system, build better schools and enrich our educational program, and devote more of our resources to health care.

Yes, the list of our pressing needs is practically endless. The point is that there is much to be done of real benefit that would create great economic activity and prosperity.

The problem is that when profit-seeking entrepreneurs control production, making money becomes more important than social needs. We should reform our market economy so that it will satisfy significant social needs rather than simply make money for those whose only goal is profit.

QUENTIN C. STODOLA

Redondo Beach

Upland