Madam, - Vera Hughes's paean to law and order and to "the home" was dispiriting for being full of certainty yet empty of imagination (October 1st). That our society is suffering is without question. That we have embraced a self-destructive hedonism is without question. But easy answers to difficult questions do not offer positive solutions.
We are the generation that finally escaped the suffocating noose of received wisdom from the churches. We are the generation struggling to throw off the shackles of invasive legislation from amoral politicians.
Unfortunately, we are still a generation unused to thinking for ourselves. Instead of questions, we have alcohol and irresponsibility. It is through questioning and searching that a new spirituality, and more importantly better questions, will be found.
We have won our deserved individualism; now we must incorporate a new set of values that protects that individualism yet ensures the survival of society. Questions, questions and even more questions are the only way to arrive at this happy medium.
The varied and often clashing opinions of the columnists in The Irish Times are useful signposts in that search. Their solutions may be rejected, but they continually ask good questions and offer good commentary which should inspire others to search. Anyone offering definite answers should be treated with the scepticism they deserve. - Yours, etc.,
PAUL BOWLER,
Meath Road,
Bray,
Co Wicklow.