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Wednesday, July 8, 2009 12:00 AM

Paris Jackson's tearful goodbye

Michael's daughter spoke movingly at his memorial. Was it a moment of genuine affection -- or exploitation?

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  • Wednesday, July 8, 2009 11:57 AM

    We will probably never be able to say for sure

    Exploitation: The act of using something (i.e. another human being) meanly or unfairly for one's own benefit.

    The main question to consider here I think, is whether Jackson's daughter appeared onstage and spoke willingly, or if she was goaded/threatened/cajoled.

    And even if she did, are we prepared to grant a 12-year old girl, even one who is related to a celebrity, the legal and moral right to make her own decisions in the matter?

    In a way, Michael's legacy, just like any celebrity's, is one of exploitation. He/she performs for an audience; another party is benefiting; and the participant may or may not be receiving a net benefit from the transaction. In the long run, the party with the money and the power always comes out with the best end of the deal.

    That is all, class. Discuss.

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