Among other good points, Ayrel Clark’s Nov. 19 column, “Land of the free, not the abridged,” emphasized our right to be wrong.

Freedom is a double-edged sword. Because of our abundant freedoms, we all have the right to voice an opinion on any topic, whether or not we know what we’re talking about. Likewise, those more informed than us have the right to educate us, optimally in composed terms, as to why our opinion may be flawed.

As a conservative on a college campus, I often find myself frustrated by the generally liberal ideas held by many students and groups at Iowa State. While I totally support every person’s right to express his or her opinion, I have a tough time accepting everyone’s right to be wrong.

All those who care passionately about the future of this country can relate to my frustration, no matter what side of the political spectrum they’re on.

No one likes to hear someone ranting and raving with incomplete or flawed information. For the politically inclined, it makes our skin crawl.

I regret that I don’t have time to watch the news or be as informed on specific issues as I’d like. Yet I hold true to my fundamental conservative beliefs because they seem to be the best system to base my life on.

However, when the world challenges my beliefs, I am forced to re-examine them and either strengthen my conviction in them or modify them in accordance with my conscience. All I ask is for the rest of the Iowa State to do the same. Would it not be a healthier citizenry that thoroughly examined its beliefs on a regular basis and objectively weighed the facts to let people’s conscience be their guide?

Let’s stop exercising our right to be wrong.

Amy Peet

Freshman

LAS undeclared