Column out of line

Mary Louise Cashel
associate professor, psychology

I was horrified to read the editorial offered Thursday by Alex Berezow in the Daily Egyptian. His column was written in apparent response to Ana Velitechkova's piece on negative views of the United States.

Irrespective of my own views on the issues, I found Mr. Berezow's statements incredibly myopic, spiteful and slanderous. He exemplifies the poorest forms of critical analysis, debate and rebuttal, drawing almost all of his arguments on personal experience and opinion.

I fully recognize and respect the importance of freedom of speech. However, there are ethical limitations, particularly when they involve pointed and malicious attempts to defame the character of another.

That this was written by a student aspiring to a career in journalism is appalling. That the column was actually printed raises questions for me regarding the competency of the editorial staff at the DE.

It is my feeling that Mr. Berezow should be required to offer a public and written apology. I would further consider his temporary suspension from the paper.

Mary Louise Cashel
associate professor, psychology

Editor's note: Alex Berezow is not a journalism student. He is a senior in microbiology.

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