Gorbachev’s U.S. Visit

Your editorial regarding the possible speech by Soviet leader Mikhail S. Gorbachev to a joint congressional session (“Tending the Flame,” Nov. 27) is to be applauded. One does indeed wonder what those opposing such an address fear. In addition to being a gross display of immaturity, this attitude scorns the free exchange of ideas which is so fundamental to democracy. As such, it is unbefitting to members of the U.S. Congress, and suggests contempt for the American public’s ability to discern cajolery from reason.

Like it or not, in the avoidance of nuclear war we share a common interest with the Soviets. It is time that our “patriotic” hard liners appreciate this fact, for there is nothing patriotic about allowing one’s country to slip into nuclear war. Those who would obstruct endeavors to prevent it betray the very principles this nation was founded upon.

DAVID JOSEPH TRICKETT

Irvine