Alternate spiritual views
I’m having dificulty grasping the thematic thrust of your recent article, “Wal-Mart goes Wicca.” Its tone implies your disapproval of this particular merchant’s merchandising of Wicca-related literature.
However, Wal-Mart has also carried, in vast quantities and for several years, Christian literature from the likes of LaHaye, Warren, and others — indeed, the firm’s “inspirational center” is a predominant and segregated section of their book department.
I fail to see the newsworthiness of this retailer’s election to offer alternate spiritual views. If anything, one should condone this move — as it signifies, however subtlely, an apparent new interest on Wal-Mart’s part in supporting the free exchange of ideas.
Your article features, on more than one occasion, the non-sequitur argument that Wiccan literature on Wal-Mart’s shelves aids in the corruption of the children who set eyes upon it. I would consider it far more dangerous to expose our children to one exclusive religious view in a world that offers hundreds.
Respectfully,
Joseph R. Becht
Pittsburgh, PA
