"To the Editor:

David Brooks rationalizes the Bush administration's appalling failures in the so-called war on terror with the statement that "wisdom comes from suffering and error, and when the passions die down and observation begins."

There was no pre-existing shortage of wisdom. Among the many who eloquently expressed such wisdom were the former national security adviser Brent Scowcroft, Senator Robert C. Byrd and Senator Edward M. Kennedy.

But such wisdom was absent from, rejected by and disparaged by the Bush administration and its cheerleaders in the media, including Mr. Brooks.

Kenneth J. Kahn"

Long Beach, N.Y., March 8, 2007