THE OTHER SIDE OF THE COIN

Citizens Have Responsibilities To Accompany Their Liberty

The July 4 Gazette presented a column by Michael S. Berliner of the Ayn
Rand Institute that focused on the meaning of independence ("Let's remember
what this day is about," Other Voices). He stated that oppressed people
have come to America "to live their own lives, where they aren't owned by
the state, the community or the tribe." So far he is right on.

However, he went on to write "the meaning of independence: trust in your
own judgement, in reason; do not sacrifice your mind to the state, the
church, the race, the nation, or your neighbors." This attitude seems to
open the door to anything goes - do drugs, drive drunk, annoy the neighbors
and generally live a boorish existence.

Berliner's view of independence is missing some essential aspects. It
should be expanded to include responsibility to respect the rights of
others, to follow some rules of conduct and generally behave as a member of
civilized society. In other words, don't infringe on the independence of
others.

Earl Depner

Monument