O.J. Simpson’s Canceled College Visit

* Re “O.J. Simpson’s Planned Visit to CSUF Class Is Put on Hold,” Oct. 28:

Why don’t kids want to go to school? Why are they bored? Because we’ve taken real-world experience out of their curriculum.

We’re so bent on controlling their minds--telling them what to think, e.g., the numerous talk shows on television, cable and radio--we’ve forgotten the point of education is to teach them how to analyze and conclude for themselves.

JOZIE LEE

La Palma

* What qualifies O.J. Simpson to speak at California State University, Fullerton, on the criminal justice system?

To many people, the Simpson trial was an affront to the judicial process because of the circus atmosphere created by the media’s gavel-to-gavel coverage.

The objective of this crime and delinquency class is to study the nature and extent of criminality, as well as research methods and theories. Emphasis should be placed on the proper execution of justice, rather than spotlighting a person acquitted under what many people consider to be questionable circumstances. Celebrity does not equate to expertise.

Why should CSUF incur additional expenses to bring Simpson to speak when, in my opinion, he has nothing of value to add to this course?

Our class was told that certain questions were off-limits. The idea of imposing restrictions is contrary to the learning experience. In an open forum, the whole point is the ability to ask any question. When restrictions are imposed, it limits the value of the presentation.

I would be offended to have Simpson, who was found liable in the civil case regarding the deaths of Nicole Brown Simpson and Ron Goldman, speak at the university. It is my hope that the university will not consider reissuing an invitation.

LINDA VAN METER

Buena Park