Week 8: Discussion Question 2
Jeanne Phillips, Dear Abby, was right in turning Paul Weisser into the
police after receiving his letter. Even with Mr. Weiser's
supposed interest in getting better he posed a significant threat to
the little girls. Furthermore, while her advice column is under
the presumption of anonymity, that does not warrant protection from Ms.
Phillips in regards to her shielding others from the crimes or
potential crimes. Furthermore, Ms. Phillips had an obligation to
operate in the best interests of the potential victims to shield them
from potential severe harm. Even more so there is a long precedent of
journalists, counselors, and lawyers who have to divulge details of
planned or potential crime to the authorities, Ms. Phillips was no
exception to this rule.
© Erik Smith 2005
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