George Mathews (letter, Jan. 19) should look at current history, not the 1770s when he opines about the role of government. I agree with him that not all governments and regulations bring good outcomes. Incompetence and the corrupting influence of money/power should have us all keeping a watchful eye on whom we elect to lead, and the laws and regulations that are passed.

But, science has demonstrated that we are not alone in this world. We all share a common limited resource called Earth.

The past year should remind us that unbridled free enterprise (capitalism) is not the solution. Economists agree that greed and lack of regulation caused the Wall Street meltdown, not to mention the egregious behavior of Bernie Madoff. Lack of regulation in China poisoned our pets and our children’s toys.

We now realize that we live in a totally interconnected world, where the individual interests of those from far away (even if well-intentioned) can strongly and negatively influence our life here in Maine. And, self-centered behavior on our part can cause chaos elsewhere.

Competent government is the only institution by which this nation can interact with global partners so that we all have a chance to leave our children clean air, clean water, and a basic respect for all living things.

Carolyn Davis, Lisbon Falls