Letters like "Human existence demands sacrifice" on Dec. 27 (which asks why whales should be treated as special creatures) are too obviously controversial pieces that are published in order to draw a response. Normally, I would say that this tactic would be acceptable as it can promote the exchange of free thought while at the same time promoting your publication; however, when voicing the moronic opinions of your more "bottom of the barrel" readers, such letters serve only to degrade the credibility of The Japan Times and drive the more intellectual readers away.
eamon kawasaki