History lesson

Jenni Russell’s opinion piece (‘‘Democracy: it’s not everyone’s cup of tea’’, World, September 18) was the biggest load of postmodern relativist balderdash I have read in a long time. Doing the right thing is never easy but trying to provide space and freedom for Western-style democracies to develop is the only way to provide human rights. She starts with the classic example of Churchill who, for all his faults, knew that totalitarianism had to be opposed. Evidently history has taught her nothing. Amanda Purdy, Wellington Glad to see the Star-Times stepping away from the rush to condense and minimise news by extending its world news coverage. Seeing a great deal more full-sized articles and viewpoints is a pleasure. Thanks for keeping us informed! Dave Evans, Christchurch