Dear Editor:
I write concerning those who turn in their acquaintances to the Honor Code Office, and then, dissatisfied with a minimal degree of punishment, open the matter to a public forum in order to damage the person's reputation further. I find it disquieting some students would attempt to personally administer retribution to those they find in violation of the Honor Code by resorting to a defamatory expose.
It troubles me some students at this university seem to view the Honor Code Office as a potential weapon against their enemies. If, after they report the violation, the Honor Code Office doesn't administer what these people consider justice, they conclude it must be inconsistent and valueless. At that point, they proceed to take justice into their own hands. In the case of a legitimate Honor Code infraction, we would expect others to reach out to us in tenderness and understanding, attempting to guide us from our errant ways with compassion and gentle persuasion.
Joseph Smith found no such warmth when he told of his marvelous vision. Instead, he was 'persecuted by those who ought to have been my friends and to have treated me kindly, and if they supposed me to be deluded to have endeavored in a proper and affectionate manner to have reclaimed me' (JS-H 1:28).
And so I make a sincere plea to those of you who know someone who struggles with part of the Honor Code: Begin with a genuine anxiety for their welfare. Then humbly and delicately entreat them in a private setting. If you must proceed to the level of the Honor Code Office, I urge you to trust their decisions. If the Honor Code Office makes a mistake, it will not be your responsibility to correct it. You will have fulfilled your obligation at that point.
Justin Kunz
Kent, Wash.