Keith Burgess-Jackson, J.D., Ph.D.

Daniel Henninger's
reference to Germany's "apprentice" system in "Joblessness:
The Kids Are Not Alright" (Wonder Land, April 8) reminds me of an
encounter I had with a pleasant young German who works for a friend of
mine.

When I asked the young
man what brought him to the U.S., he said that in Europe advancing in
your company is a function of time, not performance. In America, you are
judged, paid and promoted based on your ability and effort. That's what
he wanted as he gained experience and advanced in his professional
career.

Tell me again why we are
in such a rush to emulate Europe in all things economic and political?

John P. Donchess