>What gives an individual the right to take advantage of someone who has no knowledge of what something (a chip) is worth?

I don't consider paying someone their asking price to be taking advantage of them. Now if they ask me about the chip I would tell them what I know.

>How would you like it if a fellow chip collector took advantage of you because you lacked knowledge in an specific chip area?

I would ask questions if I felt I didn't already have adequate information. If they took advantage of me by not being truthful in response to my questions then that is a different matter.

>What is wrong with honesty in our hobby?

I support honesty, honesty is good. But accepting a price set by the seller is not dishonest. Nor is participating in an auction dishonest.

To suggest that you are under an obligation to disclose the highest price you would pay for an item in order to be honest would certainly have some odd practical effects.

"Waiter, the menu says that the Steak is $9.99, I personally believe that this steak is worth $15.99 so I'll be paying an extra six dollars."

>Who would you rather buy and sell with - someone who is honest or someone who will take advantage of you if able?

Being honest is not the opposite of taking advantage of a person.

>Would you take advantage of a client who lacked knowledge of what your services were (are) worth?

Since you and I have a different idea of what taking advantage of a person is I can't answer your question except to say that by my definition and I have not taken advantage of any client and I comply with the numerous rules which apply to my profession. I can also assure you that many people think I charge too much money. I always advise them that there are attorneys who will charge them less and that there are attorneys who will charge them more.

I appreciate that you feel personally compelled to divulge all information you know about a chip even if you are not asked. Obviously if you feel that way then you should act that way.

But I must disagree with you when you say that a person is dishonest merely for accepting a price set by the seller or by an auction.