MALAYSIA: THANKS! BUT NO THANKS! WHY?

The disappearance of  Malaysia Airlines Flight 370 is a mystery. Intriguing also is the "Malaysian authorities refusal to accept large-scale American assistance."*

When America's arsenal of military and scientific expertise is refused because of nationalistic or political interests it indicates little regard for the lives of people.

The Malaysian refusal reminds me of American politicians and pundits who do not want  federal laws and regulations for health programs, the environment or gun control because of "state's rights."

When we say, no thanks to federal laws and regulations about people's health, our environment and gun control, do we not have the same narrow regard for people and country as do the Malaysians in not seeking help?

* Michael S. Schmidt and Scott Shane New York Times, 3-17-14.