Like some of you, I too have been following this story on the plagiarism of the German Defence Minister, Mr. Guttenberg, who has just resigned as a result of the scandal.
My reaction: although it is sad to lose a popular politician, it's fair that his dishonesty should have consequences. It also makes me think about my own work - I must be careful using my references. This is something that has always concerned me. All the more so now.
What's your reaction to the story?
Comments
Hello Carlos
The minister in question has done the right thing and resigned. After a spell out of the public eye, he may yet be able to regain his reputation like Jonathan Aitkin did, a former Tory MP, from spending time in prison and in finding God (I'm not being sarcastic as he has partly redeemed himself and at the same time, keeps a relatively low profile.) Those in public service have to be seen to be trustworthy and above reproach. In recent years, a lot of British MPs came under tremendous scrutiny because of the expenses scandal and had to resign - a lot doing so unwillingly and under duress and for some its continues to be a lesson unlearnt. As the electorate, we have a right to expect appropriate behaviour from those whom we have placed in power through the voting system. The reality is though it doesn't happen and as voters, we become more cynical. I'd like to think that somewhere out there in the great political arena there's an honest guy and/or gal who's got one or two jots of our interests and worries at heart and if elected, wants to do a little right by us. If such a being exists, I might be pleasantly surprised one day. Best wishes Sharon Carr-Wu