Friendly discussions on disclosure by the Gillmor Gang…
By Sam ChimesNow, when I say friendly discussions, I actually mean explosive falling out…
The show began well enough by all accounts, but when Leo Laporte turned his attention to the Palm Pre a question from Michael Arrington sent the whole thing into an irretrievable tailspin. The question on the surface wasn’t a particularly difficult one – “Did you pay for the Pre?”
What followed was a train wreck, as far as these sorts of things go. Arrington gives his opinion on the incident here, offering the reason as to why he asked the poser, “I ask[ed] Leo whether he bought the Pre or got it free and in advance of the launch, which I think is relevant because Palm is being very picky about who they give them out to.” TechCrunch, the site Arrington writes for, didn’t get one. Something that Dvorak Uncensored believed motivated Arrington to be “huffy with Leo.”
However you read this situation, it raises the point of disclosure and loan protocol in the world of online reviews. Realistically the loan is the only viable option. To give away a product, phone/gadget or otherwise would be unethical, where as to expect a decent review without letting the reviewer try the product in their ‘real world’ would be of little value.
One thing though is apparent, aside from a penchant for over reaction on the part of both Leo and Mike as demonstrated in this particular incident – honesty and transparency has to be a must, lest we be treated to more self importance and shrouded, clouded judgements.
