In response to the July 9 article by Stephen Shankland and Matt Hines, "Web services spec invites controversy":
While there is way too much government intrusion in our lives, one legitimate function is the setting of standards--even bad ones.
It's like the old saying that a good commander is one who can make a quick decision--and, if lucky--it is the right one.
Look at the current television standard. It's a bit outdated, but it served well in its time. And then look at the mess that HDTV got in without a clear-cut standard. What would life be like without standards for electricity, gasoline, nuts and bolts? The list could go on and on.
Walt Marshall
Austin, Texas