In response to the column "Superficial modern society plagued by egocentrism, materialism" (SN 6/22), I fail to see how it is in any way detrimental for frequent television viewers to see lean and physically fit people on commercials or advertisements. In a day and age when Americans are becoming increasingly obese, I can't help but feel that this is not such a negative thing, but perhaps beneficial.

If you feel threatened and angered by looking at nice bodies on television, then I highly recommend getting off of the couch and doing something about it. Not to mention, I don't believe that people solely idolize pretty young faces and hot bodies such as Jessica Simpson or Britney Spears. Personally, I would rather watch Will Ferrell or Chris Farley than the newest episode of "Newlyweds" on any given day.

As far as all advertisements giving the false pretenses, welcome to the advertising business, my friend. That's how products get sold. If people actually believe that a single product or clothing label will be key to their well-being, then I see that as being a flaw in the individual rather than the society for the way it advertises.

I may have just been blessed throughout my life, or maybe Marc Levitt has unfortunately encountered the worst of society - but for the past twenty years, I have bumped into more polite and courteous people than I have the rude and inconsiderate. Dare I say that if one views society as the enemy, then perhaps, you are simply outcasting yourself from it.

I love the society I live in, Louis Vuitton bags and all. Who are you to say, Levitt, that one person's happiness is materialistic and that yours is so much more meaningful?

Rebecca Burkhart
pre-law sophomore