With understanding far beyond her youth

I have never met Fallbrook High student Lauren Edwards, but I read her award-winning essay, “Is Patriotism the Cause of War?” and know she possesses an understanding of global politics, patriotism and civic duty reaching far beyond her youth.

“Only by advancing the borders of knowledge and allaying fear, on both an individual and international level, can true international peace be obtained,” wrote Miss Edwards. Speaking of how governments use irrational fear to manipulate the people, she said, “When faced with a threatening situation, it is important to study all possible aspects in order to...