No public scolding

We, Americans long involved personally and professionally with Thailand, respectfully declare our concern about what many see as injudicious public remarks by Mr Daniel Russel on his recent Bangkok visit. We write out of concern for the feelings of our Thai hosts and, as we travel the world, for our own safety as well. Our Thai hosts’ graciousness towards their visitors means our second concern goes mainly to consequences elsewhere of the pattern of behaviour which Mr Russel displayed here.

A good manager never scolds an employee in front of his co-workers, nor does a teacher scold a student in front of his peers, nor a friend scold another among a group of friends.

This elementary common sense is taught in any management or teacher training course and in all leadership development programmes aimed at setting role models and achieving consensual change.

Experts advise there is a time and a place and a way to communicate helpful ideas to achieve constructive outcomes while sustaining the value of a relationship.

Violating this principle in full knowledge of the known consequences, as seen in this case, is viewed as a cheap shot for personal or national vainglory.

Some Americans now deem it wise to conceal their nationality out of concern for their safety or from shame at what they deem hypocritical arrogance among certain of their officials.

In any case if one’s own country is so governed as to be a domain of tranquility, justice, equitable economic well-being and sound finances, and should such a mode of governance plainly be universally applicable in every era and in all circumstances, then its benefits would be manifest to all, so need no further promotion.

Absent urgent pleadings for counsel, the citizens of such a happy land would need but to live quietly and modestly, letting their bright example shine forth to the nations.

KIM ATKINSON STEVE BENNETT

JEFFREY RACE TOM WESTHEIMER