Letters: Oct. 10, 2005

• Share

(3 of 3)

No doubt many readers are as disgusted as I by China's use of coerced sterilization and abortion. But perhaps we should temper our shock by recognizing that China, with more than 20% of the earth's population, has a real and extremely serious population problem for which there may not be any painless or entirely humane solutions. The Chinese have a collective cultural memory of famine and mass starvation. We need to be aware of the reasons for China's population-control policies.

JOHN COFFEE Marietta, Ga.

I was horrified by your story. How can any government justify such barbaric treatment? I understand the need for China to curb population growth, but that surely could be accomplished in a more humane way.

LYNN HALL Williamsburg, Ohio

She's Baaack!

My response to TIME's "10 Questions" interview with ex-convict Martha Stewart, whom you described as "the indomitable domestic diva" [Sept. 19], is simply this: Crime does pay.

MARY INGRAM Asheville, N.C.

For Stewart to err, as the saying goes, was human. To forgive her is divine. But to glorify her is ridiculous.

ARTHUR LEVY Worthington, Ohio