[W&B] A question of ethics & obligation

[Ralph & Bobbi London]

On Tuesday, January 23, 2007, at 04:57  PM, Milan Zahorcak wrote:

> Let us say that there is a rare, interesting, and very badly described 
> lens on eBay . . . could be something else, but I don't get very 
> many questions about something else.
>  
> Let's say someone - obviously not a member of this group, else they'd 
> figure it out immediately - contacts me and asks me if I can tell them 
> anything about the lens, what is my opinion, how much is it worth, 
> etc.  The usual questions that anyone would like to know.
>  
> Now, I know EXACTLY what it is, etc., and as it happens, I am already 
> watching the same item with the intention of bidding.
>  
> What do I do?  Am I obliged to answer?  How?

In general, you do nothing.  You are not obliged to answer.  If you do 
answer, make sure it is not deceptive or an outright lie, of course.  
If you know the person, you might make contact and explain that you 
will be bidding.  The person may then decide not to bid after all.  
Email should not be used for such a contact.

>  Would it matter if the person asking was a stranger? or a member of 
> this group? or a close friend . . . actually I already know how to 
> deal with close friends as those of you who have ever received a death 
> threat from me are aware.

Death threats aside, you must consider your continuing relationship 
with your three examples, especially a close friend.

>  But does knowing the person matter?

See above comment.

>  In any case, what are my obligations?  And what do I say?

AFTER the auction closes, you might consider replying that you were 
planning to bid on the item and that's why you did not respond.  This 
action might suggest that a no response to a future such request might 
mean you will be bidding.

>  Also, what if I had not been watching the item? and in asking, the 
> person brought it to my attention?  Is my obligation any different?

I've always been aware that asking might be a tip-off and consider that 
risk before asking.

>  PS:  Do I have any obligation to the seller?

No, especially if you plan to bid.  Fred is right: sellers should know 
what they are doing and not expect others to bail them out.

These situations are  tricky and there is no perfect solution.  You'll 
have to make some compromises with absolute principles.  I hope my 
comments reflect that spirit.

Ralph