I haven’t blogged about the David Carradine story up ’til now, because, well, I thought it was somewhat unethical to dredge the actor’s death into the public spotlight more than it already was (if that were possible). I’m of the belief that gawking at an accident scene is really somewhat indecent. Even if it is a natural instinct, I think it’s one we should all try to overcome–if not for ourselves, then for the sake of those, like Carradine’s family, who would wish to have their privacy maintained in such a terrible moment.
But today I read that a Thai tabloid newspaper, Thai Rath, actually went so far as to publish hanging photos of Mr. Carradine’s body, allegedly taken by the forensics team, on their front page. Carradine’s family is said to be outraged, and who wouldn’t be?
What human beings won’t do for money, eh? I mean, I know the newspaper business is hurting globally, but even so, the sheer indecency of making public such gruesome, intensely personal images–photos sure to embarrass and grieve the actor’s family–just to make a buck really shows how little value some people place on ethical behavior.
Sure, in 99.999% of cases, one wants the press to serve as an agent of fearless truth and keep the public informed. But tell me, what is the public interest being served here (other than a prurient one)?
Do *you* think it was a good idea for Thai Rath to publish a David Carradine death picture? Feel free to share your thoughts below.
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