LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Published: THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19, 1996

'Collective Guilt' : LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Regarding "Face It, There Is No 'German Gene"' (Opinion, Dec. 6) by Peter Schneider:

As an American living in Switzerland, I read Mr. Schneider's article with considerable interest. I wish, however, it had been more resolute. The idea of a "German gene" is not just scientifically untenable, it is also morally repulsive. The bottom line of the Goldhagen book is racist, and there is no reason to clothe this judgment in euphemisms.

Admittedly, most writers disavow the concept of "collective guilt," but many of them very much continue to believe in it.

The argument against racism and the thesis of collective guilt is one of human rights. Article 17 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights protects the right to one's honor and reputation. Article 20 prohibits incitement to racial hatred. Are Germans to be excluded from such protection?

ALFRED DE ZAYAS.