War on Drugs

* Re “Coming to a Theater . . . ,” editorial, July 12: Will our exorbitantly expensive, counterproductive war on drugs never end? Will there ever exist any politician possessing the ethics, conscience and courage to proclaim it for what it is--a political soapbox?

Our noble “drug czar,” Barry McCaffrey, continues to concoct ever-more-asinine schemes. Also not acknowledged: This interminable, unwinnable war strengthens that which it seeks to destroy. The endless preaching and sloganeering serve to generate desire for that which is forbidden, creating an “us against them” camaraderie, especially among the disenfranchised. Legalization plus readily available treatment are the humane and only options. The astronomical policing, judicial and penal costs of our futile war have been well documented, as has the horrific toll of lives destroyed or lost.

ILENE BRISKIN

Beverly Hills

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* I think that you should reconsider your message in your editorial. Although some movie directors may be concerned about creative freedom, the drive for profits is far more important to the industry as a whole. As a result, many movies feature violence, gratuitous sex, bad language, dangerous driving, drinking, smoking and other undesirable behaviors. Why? Because it sells. Unfortunately, it seems that these bad examples have considerable effect on actual behavior, especially the actions of young people. Some may argue that the movies are not solely to blame. However, they are obviously at least a significant part of the cause of the widespread deterioration of behavior.

I think that government and the movie industry should combine to set specific standards as to what film messages are acceptable.

QUENTIN C. STODOLA

Redondo Beach

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* This reminds me of the time the government required all films to reflect Socialist Realism or they couldn’t be shown. No, wait . . . that was the USSR.

LOREN MECK

Simi Valley