01-26-2009, 10:04 PM
Due to the factors listed above, I have always conducted my business on the Internet, such as it is, at a distance with which I'm comfortable.
IMO, it's difficult enough to accurately assess the character of someone when you meet them in person. It is only when you get to see them over a period of time at work and eventually in their home that you really know their true character. Even then, it's a difficult proposition.
Take the Bernie Madoff scandal as an example. People entrusted family fortunes and charitable trusts to this goniff because he was believed to be a man of integrity with a reputation built up over decades. They found out the hard way that he was a crook and thief at his very core.
IMO, it's difficult enough to accurately assess the character of someone when you meet them in person. It is only when you get to see them over a period of time at work and eventually in their home that you really know their true character. Even then, it's a difficult proposition.
Take the Bernie Madoff scandal as an example. People entrusted family fortunes and charitable trusts to this goniff because he was believed to be a man of integrity with a reputation built up over decades. They found out the hard way that he was a crook and thief at his very core.