Ethics for Magical People: Psychic Voyeurism (3 of 4)

In the second example, Jordan used Billy to spy on his ex-wife. He told Billy that he wanted to see how she was doing, but Billy knew that Kathy cut off contact with Jordan three years before. Then when Billy tries to peer in on her, she psychically punches him in the face. This sets Jordan off, who is now determined to get in touch with Kathy in order “to save her.” Through his actions, Billy aided a stalker, by encouraging Jordan to seek his ex-wife out. Moreover by spying on Kathy, he enabled Jordan to become psychically connected to her. In addition, Billy forced Kathy to be more vigilant in her physical and psychic defenses.

Simply because Billy can do remote (psychic) viewing, does not mean that he has to acquiesce to everyone’s request. Billy needs to establish boundaries for himself, so that he does not become psychically entangled with other people. The Remote Viewing Institute of Germany has a basic rule for their people to follow: “Put your nose out of things that do not concern you.” 

The Institute stresses “respect for others,” by focusing on the dignity of each person. This ethic is paramount in collecting data – the right to privacy and autonomy of each individual. The other thing that Billy may not perceive is that he has lost the trust of his friends. Because he gave in to their requests, they cannot be sure if he will not spy on them in the future. Since he so easily caved to their pleadings, his friends are unsure whether their secrets are safe from him.

By trying to please his friends, Billy violated their dignity as well. He enabled them to commit unethical acts, and rationalize what they did. Billy allowed his friends to become comfortable in violating another’s privacy for their trivial reasons.  

Most of all, Billy violated himself and his gift. He became a tool for others instead of a human being worthy of respect. By using his ability to please others, Billy debased himself by spying on non-consenting people. He must understand that he has the right to say “no,” and be uninformed about other people.