As we are all well aware, Wikileaks founder Julian Assange was arrested the other day on suspicion of computer hacking, rape and impersonating David Letterman. This brings up all sorts of ethical questions. Is this man a journalist whose alleged transgressions ought to be tolerated in the name of Free Speech? Or is he a trafficker in purloined documents with no more rights than a guy who deals in stolen cars?
One thing I do know: The vast majority of people are thrilled and delighted when leaks of private documents embarrass or harm their enemies, and outraged when they themselves are harmed. Just about no one stands on any principle larger than that.
Emily Stewart sums up the two sides of the argument, shedding genuine light on it and making me more confused than ever on where I stand on this.