To the editors:

The Crimson might do well to rethink its endorsement of the Higher Education Act, which calls for government involvement in all campus liquor-law violations (Editorial, Oct. 6). Do the editors really think that having the government informed when first-years are caught with beer will help prevent alcohol-related tragedies?

The editorial did much more to point fingers at The Crimson's favorite targets, "our precious final clubs" and Harvard administrators, than to address the efficacy of such government policies. Is The Crimson prepared to have the same scrutiny directed toward itself or its own "beverage-laden" parties? The editors should not confuse a need for education in responsible drinking with a need for "zero-tolerance policies." Unfortunately, the dangers of drinking do not disappear on a student's 21st birthday. JOHN J. A. SMITH '00   Oct. 6, 1998