Dear Mr. Kristof

Dear Mr. Kristof,

I have read your article Obama and the War on Brains in the NY Times. Although I agree with a few of your claims, I was somewhat appalled by your strong, flat-on attack at George Bush. Also, it seems to me that you are either somewhat disgraced or disappointed at the American community. Moreover, do you not agree that George Bush was not overly stupid in international affairs? George Bush has not committed any crimes. One phrase I was particularly amazed to read was: ‘President Bush, lend me your ears – that leader self destruct when they become too rigid and too intoxicated with the fumes of moral clarity.’ However, I do sympathize with your hope of Obama ‘setting a new tone for this country.’ Also, I understand how smart people are sometimes perceived as sissies. That is something that will be very hard to manipulate, since children have been influenced by the media from the age of 10. Hopefully, Obama can change this issue. I appreciate your bravery in posting this in the NY Times.

Qi Pan