To the Editor:
I disagree with the assumption that sparse attendance at a panel discussion in Hanover indicates "fading interest" and "apathy" toward the war in Afghanistan (The Dartmouth, Jan. 11, 2002, "Low attendance at terrorism forums may reflect fading interest"). I am not acquainted with anyone who is "numbed out on this war," as Professor Edsforth suggests. I also find it quite arrogant that he and his fellow panelists would attribute these sentiments to me or the American public. Hanover may feel very far away from New York or Washington D.C., but members of the intellectual community still have a responsibility not to trivialize the events that have occurred since Sept. 11th or seem to sanction the indifference of those who don't feel the need to stay informed. The reality is that many Americans are still experiencing a tremendous amount of grief and shock, even as we hear reports of new tragedies in Afghanistan every day. It is cavalier and insensitive to allege that most of us are "over it."
