In Froma Harrop’s column about McCain (The World, July 31), she wrote this about Barack Obama:  “The lack of ballast makes his (Obama) messianic rallies, now spanning the continents, a bit creepy. Where did he come from?”

Since this  so-called independent columnist can write, I assume she can read. So why is it she doesn’t know where Sen. Obama came from? Or perhaps she is casting doubt on the senator’s ability to lead. All she has to do is read his two well-written books to learn about his origins. She also will learn what an intelligent visionary he is. And his campaign, thus far one of the best run in recent U.S. history, demonstrates Sen. Obama’s outstanding leadership and managerial skills.

Harrop packages herself as an independent voice on politics, economics and culture. I don’t remember reading her column in The World before today and I don’t care to ever read her again, since it is clear she lacks intellectual curiosity. Contempt prior to investigation is the mark of an ignorant person, as defined by William James the philosopher and psychologist.   

Surely The World can find a more engaging columnist than Harrop. But please, don’t bring back Ann Coulter.