Regarding the Sept. 4 Kyodo brief "Tokyo faces five in bid for 2020 games": An argument against Tokyo bidding for the 2020 Olympics can be made on financial grounds, especially with the outcome anything but certain. But there is an aura of magnificence about the Olympiad beyond tangible measurement.

The 1964 Tokyo Olympics did much to lift the spirits of millions. The quadrennial event might once again prompt national exuberance and optimism, and improve economic conditions by focusing the world's attention on Japan. Despite the prospect of failure in receiving the nod, I think a bid is called for.

The opinions expressed in this letter to the editor are the writer's own and do not necessarily reflect the policies of The Japan Times.

michael g. driver