Nobody wants to see enterprise repressed nor invention that benefits humanity penalised for pushing the boundaries of creativity. But inventors must be made responsible for their discoveries and those marketing them must have well and truly enforced their duty to promote decently. If the pulpit can no longer convince us of that, the courts must. The META Conclusion – if, indeed, it is yet a conclusion – should be welcomed by all who wish to see personal responsibility reignited as a symbol of decent humanity.
But wait. What penalty does $18Bn impose on the individual(s) convicted of crimes against children? Shame? Forget it. Swingeing penalties today are more a cause of pride than disgrace. Personal dislike? Just work out what $18Bn would buy in publicity. It is certainly not as good coverage as the reporting of the META Conclusion will provide. Today’s martyrs don’t sacrifice themselves, they sacrifice others. And the reason is that their personal sacrifice is still maintained at zero. They retreat to their comfort zones.
Giant investment deposits are no substitute for personal accountability. Decisions are made by people not institutions. Institutions being penalised for individuals wrongdoing is just not good enough. The META Conclusion is on the right road.
But it is only half way there.
Good morning
John Bittleston
Your views are always welcome at [email protected].
27 August 2026
