Reader response
Young German author climbs bestseller list despite plagiarism claims
The young lady is a thief of the works of others. It's not surprising that she had to steal from others: she simply has not lived long enough to have “a feel” for the material about which she writes. -- Skeptisch, US
After reading the report, I'm more convinced than ever that there is a need to talk about media ethics. With so much information readily available, especially on the internet, we get exposure to various sources of information, knowledge, music, photos and videos and then simply forget where we read, heard or watched the material. Again, I think that there is a great need to review media ethics. In addition to acknowledging our sources of information, I think that we should be mindful of the effects of what we publish on the media consumers. -- Malou Francisco, The Netherlands
Pope meets Irish bishops over pedophile scandal
If Jesus walked the Earth today, would he go home to such lavish surroundings? Would he have paintings, treasures, etc. so valuable that a dollar amount could not be placed on them? There is wealth in Rome and far too many power-hungry men. Jesus only had 12 men, how many should their really be in Rome? I have a strong faith and truly believe Jesus would feed and house the poor before himself, not hurt children or protect those who do. Anyone guilty of such a crime against an innocent should be arrested now. I trust the Pope will ensure charges are brought against those involved in this abuse at the end of the two-day gathering. Sexual abuse is a way to ensure someone's sick needs are being met. Stop them before they do more damage. In God's name protect our children. -- Mary Trottier, Canada
I think a good idea is to have a web-based reporting system, whereby an individual can report abuses by a priest or nun to the Vactican and local authorities, and not have to report it to local clergy where it may be covered up. -- Jeff Brandes, US
The pedophile problem in the Catholic Church is the result of the latitudinarian culture that evolved from the Second Ecumenical Council of the Vatican. This culture has found its way to the law of the Church. The only way to solve this problem is to amend the Code of Canon Law so that crimes like this among the clergy are not tolerated. -- Humboldt, Nicaragua
Roman Catholic priests were for centuries allowed to marry and raise families until the practice was prohibited. While this was not an iron-clad means of preventing child abuse, it did much to normalize family and other human relations. The non-Catholic ministry has no such stricture and is less troubled by such practices, with no less devotion to religion. Priests should be able to join normal human society, setting an example, rather than existing on the fringe, with abnormal pressures. -- Warren Greer, US
Compiled by Stuart Tiffen
Editor: Andreas Illmer
