&#91LETTERS TO THE EDITOR&#93Writer places rays of hope under a bush of ignorance

I am responding to the column “What we learned by candlelight,” published in the April 25 edition of the JoongAng Daily. When we look back on the past, we do so to prepare more wisely for the future. In that sense, what the writer claims is dangerous.
First, his lesson of “people should be restrained” in taking a position sounds like defeatism. That does not help us become responsible citizens, sharing the burden equitably. What we should learn is that we should not gag people who voice different opinions.
Second, he said domestic problems could be solved “in whatever way possible.” This ignores international ties. Korea’s geopolitical and economic situation, not to mention globalization, do not support this argument.
We should be more pragmatic with a strong root in ideals. Pragmatism means dealing with problems in a sensible and practical way rather than following a set of ideas.
The people on this peninsula need to educate themselves about foreign affairs and security issues.

by Kim Dae-young