The linearized equations governing the time dependence of the one‐particle distribution function and the two‐particle correlation function in a one‐component plasma which is slightly removed from thermal equilibrium are investigated in the plasma limit. The integral equation for the two‐particle correlation function is solved by the Wiener‐Hopf method. It is shown that a self‐consistent evolution of the one‐particle distribution function and the two‐particle correlation function is not prescribed by the theory unless lengths on the order of the distance of closest approach in a two‐body encounter are retained. The relation of the analysis to the conjecture by Bogoliubov concerning the time dependence of multiparticle distribution functions is discussed. In particular, it is shown that although modes corresponding to distances larger than the Debye length are very slowly damped they do not make an appreciable contribution to the kinetic equations.