Do keep in mind that (thank goodness) there is no professional licensing requirement for journalists. So, while he’ll certainly suffer from reduced career opportunities, there is little chance he will stop working in the industry except voluntarily.

To my understanding, none of Ben’s former employers are giving him him a second chance, just as none were freely given to Jayson.

Showing remorse and accepting responsibility are two steps in making amends, even with the justifiable penalty of being shunned professionally as a plagarist and never being allowed to work in journalism or publishing again.

Jayson Blair has offered plenty of reasons and excuses for what he did, but he has not offered one sincere apology. To date, he has blamed everybody and everything but himself — following the “victim” route along with Stephen Glass.

I personally forgave Jayson some time ago, but I’m unable to forget how he handled the matter. He should have shown contrition and accepted full responsibility, which Ben has done.