Letter: Family v career

Joyce McMillan (Perspective, 8 October) bemoans the unjust tax system that treats husband and wife as independent economic units, yet it is her beloved feminism that fostered this misguided individualism.

Indignant insistence that "I am a woman in my own right" may correct some sexist views but, if pushed too far, it can also lead to a political ethos that neglects family and focuses just on the state and the citizen. As Ms McMillan attempts to prolong the battle of sexes indefinitely, she must be fed up with the many women who continue to value home life, family and parenthood above climbing the career ladder, oblivious to the fact that they should feel "oppressed" and "trapped" because they are not fulfilling their potential.

RICHARD LUCAS

Cowan Road

Shandon, Edinburgh