To the editor:

The theory of justice is balance. Its symbol is scales, and we blindfold the lady who holds them. Merit is not measured by the weight of money. From government we want justice; we do not want it sold to the highest bidder. But do we really believe the ideal?

Access at every level of government is for sale. We are not so much surprised that the governor of Illinois tried to sell a seat in the U.S. Senate as we are at the galling stupidity of his methods. Why will Caroline Kennedy get her seat in the U.S. Senate? Has she merited it? Who gets seated for dinner with the president, or has the best seats in the Fieldhouse? Access is paid for; the principle is the same.

Last week, President Bush issued a pardon to a convicted criminal. One day later, he rescinded the pardon saying he discovered the man’s father recently had given money to the Republican Party. Bush was concerned it might appear that lady justice had peeked; some would say the pardon was purchased.

It leaves a question: Do we want justice, or just the appearance?

William Skepnek,
Lawrence