Polanski and Misplaced Outrage

If the demand for sexual pleasure is so compelling that we can throw overboard moral principles that extend back to the very roots of our civilization, it is not clear why we would insist that it stop short and respect the consent of individuals. In short, sexual liberation conjured up a spirit of moral nihilism to liberate the unrestrained pursuit of pleasure, and it is not at all certain that such a spirit can be commanded to behave once it has been summoned.

This is from an interesting article on the recent arrest of Roman Polanski and the subsequent reaction of both conservatives and Hollywood-types. The article is titled "Roman Polanski, Hollywood, and the Mystery of Missing Outrage". The author admits that one might feel pity for Polanski upon his arrest, but asks why is Hollywood's reaction not based on pity for the guilty but outrage at those who would do justice.

The article can be read here: http://www.firstthings.com/onthesquare/2009/10/roman-polanski-hollywood-and-the-mystery-of-the-missing-outrage.