Tuesday, June 10, 2008

If It Looks Like A Duck

If it looks like a duck, quacks like a duck, swims like a duck, then it must be a duck, right? Not necessarily. We must be careful to give the duck further examination to determine if it is a duck, or merely an imposter dressed as a duck. The problem with examining the duck further is, it might be an invasion of its personal privacy, or it could show that we have something against ducks in general since we are singling this one out for examination. If the duck has made statements about its qualifications, and abilities, and is being considered for an important job, do we have an obligation to put its right to privacy aside and give it further examination in the interest of the greater population it will serve? Let's ignore the possible negative potential of not knowing for sure if the duck is really a duck, or if this duck is qualified for the job it seeks. We have never had a duck in this position. Let's follow the popular view that everyone must be given a chance to win regardless of talent, preparation, character, or any of the other criteria used to set one individual above another based on merit. Let's bend the natural rules and give the duck a chance. What could it hurt?

Write a wise saying and your name will live forever. - Anonymous