Letters to the Editor

Rebecca LaVally

Dating to colonial times, letters to American newspaper editors have given ordinary citizens a way to publicly express their views on issues of the day—and to offer opinions on how those issues are covered. Published letters from readers enliven and personalize the news; they are among the most-read items in newspapers. Broadcasters, too, may air letters that illustrate both the relevance of their programs and the public spirited-ness of their audiences. Skilled and dedicated letter writers are so valued that some editors regularly host them at get-togethers to celebrate their contributions to public debate. Although it may be tempting for political leaders to consider letters to the editor a rough gauge of public opinion, letters fall well short of representing any scientific measure of what a community is thinking. Some people simply are more inclined and able than others to voice their opinions to the news media, and editors may ...

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