LETTERS: UNDERSTANDING TERRORISM

To the editor:

This letter is in no way intended to defend terrorism. Terrorism is a crime and should be dealt with as any other crime. There are two main types of crime. Probably the most prevalent is crime for monetary gain. The other is crime for revenge. Terrorism comes under the latter.

Everyone should understand what motivates a terrorist. Usually it is the result of an injustice having been done to the terrorist for which he has no redress. This results in frustration and a desire for revenge. It's not to be condoned, but it should be understood, because it is a trait of human nature. And it should be recognized as such, because it's here to stay. No amount of money or legislation will change that fact. Nor will lip service.

Terrorism is, for the most part, a fairly recent occurrence. Back in the days when our government tended to our own business almost exclusively, terrorism was almost unheard of. But now, since our government has proclaimed itself to be responsible for the whole world and sends troops everywhere to take sides in conflicts which are none of our business, terrorism is commonplace. Terrorism would be much easier to prevent than stamp out. In fact, it will never be stamped out as long as we keep making enemies. I wonder how many innocent people will lose their lives before this lesson is learned and acted upon.

RAY UMBDENSTOCK

Cape Girardeau