[HPforGrownups] Veritaserum RANT

[Patrick Jarrett]

No: HPFGUIDX 123811

> bboyminn:
> People need to get over the idea that Veritaserum flows like pumpkin
> juice at a Hogwart's feast. They need to get over the idea that Truth
> Serum is the answer to all problems; it's not.

<much snippage was had>

> Truth is not absolute, if's a matter of opinion and personal
> preception. Consequently, truth devices, while helpful to law
> enforcement on occassion, are not a reliable means of divining the truth.
> 
> So, please, cork your Veritaserum bottles, that's not the answer to
> all life's sticky problems.


Patrick:
I completely agree. BUT. It's presence can't simply be ignored.
Indeed, it is not a free flowing and easily acquired substance, but
the threat of its presence cannot simply be ignored. I whole heartedly
agree that it is not a panacea for story lines or plot holes, but your
rant does seem rather strong.

Yes, there are flaws to its use. Yes you are right that it is only as
correct as the speaker's knowledge. But Veritaserum, as presented in
the books, is not a lie detector machine of the muggle world. It is a
potion mixed by potions masters which is to be used to force the
speaker to speak only in truths as far as they know.

They say there are three sides to any story, your side, my side, and
the truth. And that may be what applies here. JKR has implemented
numerous tools for the WW, numerous spells, charms, potions, toys,
gadgets, doohickeys, watchamacallits and thingamajigs. All with a
niche, whether it be a plot device, a common tool, or a product of
higher skills for use in certain situations. And Truth serum has its
place as well. I just don't think it can be corked and set aside like
that.

I realize it is a rant and so it carries an emotional weight to it,
but I felt I should voice my dissenting agreement to it.

-- Patrick