As public relations counselors, we advise clients on how to apologize with impact, gradually converting potential enemies into friends.

FORBES: When is an Apology Effective?

An audience member asked if Fox were to apologize for cancelling the show, how would the panelists want them to do it?

FORBES: Overheard at New York Comic Con 2012's Firefly Panel

Technology executives in particular had plenty to apologize for this past year--from defective products to slip-ups in how they handled private data collected via the Internet.

FORBES: How Silicon Valley Says 'Sorry'

Perhaps we should elect only those candidates willing to acknowledge the tough decisions, accept responsibility, define how they will make decisions and, when warranted, apologize for their mistakes.

FORBES: Apologies and Responsibility Help Family, Business and Politics