Would You Have Liked to Have Been Deep Throat?

Hi!

The identity of Deep Throat (the previously anonymous source for reporters Woodward and Bernstein at the Washington Post during the Watergate break-in aftermath) was one of the most closely guarded and intriguing secrets in the world over the past few decades.

Debate has raged since Deep Throat was identified as W. Mark Felt, the one-time number two man at the FBI. Many feel that Mr. Felt dishonored his country to revealing secrets to the reporters that he knew through his job. Others see Mr. Felt as a hero who helped unmask extreme villainy in office.

Imagine yourself in a situation where you knew a terrible secret that would change the attitudes of a nation. How would being a billionaire . . . or not being a billionaire . . . affect your decision?

Hopefully, you would act in full integrity regardless of your financial situation. But if you had less to lose (not being a billionaire), perhaps it would be easier to exercise your conscience (whatever it told you). On the other hand, you might feel easier doing the right thing if you knew you had all the money you needed to defend yourself. But, conversely, if you had no money, perhaps others would chip in to defend you . . . and you would have even greater resources to protect you.

Regardless of whether or not you are a billionaire or simply live better than one on five dollars extra a day, your decision should only examine your religious beliefs, your personal values and your sense of integrity . . . not your financial situation.

If you will share with me any ethical challenges that you've had where having (nor not having) lots of money would make a difference in whether you did the "right" thing or not, I would be interested in hearing your views. If you want to be private, contact me by e-mail. If you want to spur a public debate, add a comment to this post.

Donald W. Mitchell, Your Dream Concierge

Copyright 2005 Donald W. Mitchell