To the editor:

There’s really not that much difference between Koch Industries influence-peddling at Kansas University and that of the Chinese government (“Release of KU emails is academic freedom issue,” Journal-World, May 30). Koch wants to spread the message that large corporations can use their wealth to ensure that the Golden Rule remains in effect (e.g. those with the gold rule).

Though hidden under layers of communist rhetoric, the kleptocratic Chinese government shares a similar philosophy. Both have discovered the power of riches in corrupting media and academia, and they both frown on students or workers daring to question the status quo.

Should this trend continue, Kansas workers and students will begin to resemble their Chinese counterparts, struggling just to survive, fearful of their bosses, and resigned to the fact the state’s power is derived from the wealthy.