Altruism

Your Nov. 10 front page portrays a sad irony by juxtaposing two stories where altruism is the central theme. In one, the Senate is intending to legislate self-sacrifice by forcing employers to pay employees more than they are worth (“Senate Approves Hike in U.S. Minimum Wage”). The photo next to it celebrates the 10th anniversary of the Berlin Wall’s destruction. A wall that had imprisoned German citizens to ensure they sacrifice their interests to the state.

As long as altruism is seen as a virtue, walls will continue to be built, either invisible through legislation or visible in concrete. Both defended by guns and good intentions.

CLIFFORD W. STANFIELD

Aliso Viejo