#6 In your opinion, when is it beneficial, ethical, or appropriate to digitally alter photographic portraits? When do you think it is inappropriate or ethically wrong?

I believe it is okay to alter photographs of people when it comes to beauty/fashion photography. Clearing blemishes, editing colors, smoothing skin tones, and the whole gambit of other techniques are all necessary for high quality photography that will represent someone's brand.
On the other hand, I do not agree with altering photos for news or celebrities. Removing people from news story photos, or completely changing the scene to effect the mood or slander someone should never occur. News needs to be honest, and celebrity gossip should not be supported by fake/edited photos.