Madam, - In your edition of September 2nd, your correspondent in Beijing states that, due to Chinese concern over the declining Panda population the government is considering the introduction of Panda cloning. Surely this is a draconian overuse of technology.
The Russian scientist Pavlov demonstrated that dogs could be taught to salivate at the ringing of a bell. This formed the basis for the development of modern cognitive behavioural therapy.
I suggest that simple therapeutic methods could be used to train Pandas to associate sex with food; this would allow precious scientific resources to be used elsewhere and the integrity of the Panda species to be respected. - Yours, etc.,
JONNIE ENRIGHT, Psychotherapist, Teach Na Páiste, Ballyheigue, Co Kerry.