International Consensus or World War

It can't be pointed out often enough, as did the editorial "Iraqi Brinksmanship," Jan. 13, that the world, preferably the United Nations, must stop dictators such as Saddam Hussein and Slobodan Milosevic - and easily led ethnic groups such as the Serbs - before they spark a major war. Apparently this fact, as evidenced by events that led to World Wars I and II, still has not had a major impact. Should we survive another such conflict, perhaps we will finally know that an international consensus to use fo rce must be arrived at quickly, when it is obvious that negotiations cannot succeed. Doris F. Sutter, San Rafael, Calif.

Letters are welcome. Only a selection can be published, subject to condensation, and none acknowledged. Please address them to "Readers Write," One Norway St., Boston, MA 02115.