To the editor:Anyone who doubts that the very concept of the death penalty absolutely unhinges rightist politicians need only consider Missouri Gov. Matt Blunt's proposal that forcible rape of a child under the age of 12 be henceforth punishable by death.

That particular crime invariably occurs in isolation from everyday activity and for that reason can be easily converted into a murder at the criminal's whim. Missourians must ask Governor Blunt: If death is to be the penalty for the rapist who goes away leaving the victim still alive, then where is the benefit for the rapist who refrains from killing the person who in most such cases is the only witness -- the victim? Indeed, what would be the benefit for potential victims, and for society at large, were this harebrained proposal to be enacted?

This proposal ought to be called "The Encouragement of Snuffing Act."

DONN S. MILLER, Tamms, Ill.