Originally Posted by aklim

OK. That we agree on.

Now, what if PH had developed this "goodwill" and used that goodwill to spring herself? Granted she probably didn't get active in the community but say she did contribute to certain campaigns and/or will to a certain Sheriff and somehow she was sprung from jail. Isn't that the same parallel as what you are saying about gaining a certain degree of influence via donations and/or community services? She got sprung because of the "goodwill" she spread around. JD gets his warrants served or whatever it is called, that Citizen Joe wouldn't get because he didn't gather enough "goodwill". Somehow I see them as similar issues. IMO, either way, it is still peddling influence to advance one's agenda. In the case of PH, it was for a "get out of jail free" card. In the case of JD, it is to get the local cops to take him and his complaint seriously whereas Citizen Joe would be dismissed. Either way, to me, it is peddling influence. Just as if my company were to donate to Senator Joe's campaign and said senator somehow votes in favor of my proposal. All I am saying is that either all cases are immoral or none of them are.