Dear Editor,

In response to the article "Galactic Liberty?", I have a thought.

The Force factors into the political scheme of the Star Wars series pretty heavily, given that it creates a mystical motif of External vs. Internal locus of control. More specifically, it creates a dichotomy between the fluidity of the cosmos and an aggressive attempt to control the world.

In addition to some critique about big/small gov't, Star Wars introduces the notion that *being* a big, nasty control-freak of a ruler turns someone's soul inside out. The Emperor makes his domain a symbol of his obesssion with success, domination, and personal achievement of goals. His ugly mug and twisted Force powers should conjure up images of people we know from ALL walks of life: basically, anyone who's really into it for the thrill of victory rather than the betterment of the Earth.

That's a big element of Buddhism, and while it's obscured by laser-swords and cool helmets, it definitely does shine through in places, giving us a look at the above-mentioned theme.

-- Zachary Dettwyler
Fairfax, VA