Newsroom Magazine Global Edition Global Edition Today Is Wednesday, March 17, 2010

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Deft — A Definition
Definitions Section



deft, deft criminality

adjective

realm: general

Having well developed skills, advanced knowledge and ability to apply both to problem solving.

realm: criminality

One who makes decisions or takes actions which are inappropriate or unlawful while making them appear to be ordinary, appropriate or warranted.

Foundations

Being skillful, cunning and talented in beneficial ways.

Intentionally expanding the envelope of what is accepted and expected beyond what is customary, acceptable, or lawful.

Examples

A sleight of hand artist deftly makes his illusion appear to be real.

A banker who appears to be a responsible and accountable businessman who knowingly takes risks with your money, not his.

A rating agency that uses its skills and reputation to represent that which is deficient as if creditworthy.

A health insurance company that cancels coverage for those who become seriously ill.

A carnival barker who can make something very ordinary appear to be extraordinary.

A politician who says what people want to hear as if his own intentions.