David Letterman
Transcript: David Letterman In 2009, David Letterman revealed that he had sexual misconduct with his female employee's. This was in response to a plan by CBS news producer Robert Halderman who demanded a ransom to keep quiet about Letterman's sexual affairs. Earlier that year, Letterman married his long time girlfriend of 23 years and mother of their 6 year old son. Letterman apologized on his show about his behavior and how he compromised his staff. “quid pro quo” meaning “this for that” Involves higher authority in workplace, can directly effect job status, hiring/firing, etc. Hostile Environment Involves anyone who one would interact with on job, i.e. co-workers, customers, vendors, etc. and includes discussing sexual activities, unnecessary touching, commenting on physical attributes, sexually suggestive pictures, etc. With such a sexually scandalous past, Letterman illustrates that his affection for, now wife, Regina Lasko was never something exclusive to her. The ethics of utilitarianism now prove immoral, therefore wrong and unethical, because the party that suffers is the Letterman family due to embarrassment, defamation of character, and possible broken trust brought on by David Letterman exposing his indecent and unvirtuous ways. Unlawful Sexual Harassment Extortion - CBS News Producer demanded $2 Million Utilitarianism - "the ends justifies the means" Exchange of sexual pleasantries between superiors and subordinates did not prove fruitful for all Letterman shows no remorse for his actions "Did Dave hit on me? No. Did he pay me enough extra attention that it was noted by another writer? Yes. Was I aware of rumors that Dave was having sexual relationships with female staffers? Yes. Was I aware that other high-level male employees were having sexual relationships with female staffers? Yes. Did these female staffers have access to information and wield power disproportionate to their job titles? Yes. Did that create a hostile work environment? Yes. Did I believe these female staffers were benefiting professionally from their personal relationships? Yes. Did that make me feel demeaned? Completely. Did I say anything at the time? Sadly, no." Conclusion The Ethical Issues Letterman & Me Here's What Happened - Nell Scovell