It is with disturbance and some sorrow that I read Chris Scally's article and previous Viewpoint pieces attacking Professor Rice. Mr. Scally writes about the "stupidity," "worthlessness" and arrogance of Professor Rice's writings. Nothing justifies such violent language.

Mr. Scally accuses Professor Rice of not presenting enough support for his views; yet Mr. Scally's piece lacks logical foundation by confining itself to attacking Professor Rice personally. I appreciate Professor Rice's column as an effort to point readers toward Catholic teaching. I also appreciate the responses as long as they are based on serious thought.

I would like to suggest that there is no arrogance in deferring to the Catechism or the Pope's teaching but that the arrogance rather lies in attacking, without offering substantive support, a man expounding these teachings. The Catechism and the Pope's teaching are based on research, deliberate thought, and input by distinguished men and women. Perhaps Mr. Scally should start by challenging his own views before attacking those that many faithful and educated people believe to be truthful.

Mr. Scally dislikes being told what to think and believes that there is more than one correct opinion. It is easy to overlook in how many ways we are told what to think but only oppose it in few circumstances. We are told to think that it is proper to eat with utensils (silverware, chopsticks), but couldn't it be just as proper to eat with our hands? Additionally, some matters may have only one correct answer: either there is a God or there is none.

Professor Rice has served his country in the U.S. Marine Corps and has taught at Notre Dame for several decades; the list of his accomplishments and honors is considerable. I had the honor and pleasure of attending Professor Rice's last torts class. It was one of the most memorable experiences of my academic career at Notre Dame.

I support serious debate, but I oppose attacks based on mere polemics. The potential of great thought and scholarship at Notre Dame is remarkable. Let's not destroy this potential.

Michael Wolz

graduate student

Fischer Graduate Residences

Nov. 11

• Republicans must avoid extremes in wake of election victories
  
• Anti-war activists should respect others' free speech as well as their own
  
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• Support for Rice and the Pope's teachings
  
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