Something that has always interested me is the way the private lives of politicians and authority figures becomes subjects of scandal in the media. As a general rule of thumb, I dislike politicians anyway, but I also do not think someone's extra-marital affairs are reason for them to have to resign or be fired. Given, if you make a career of being in the spotlight, expect people to publicize everything you do, but I think some things are blown way out of proportion.
For instance, when most people think of Bill Clinton, they think of the sex scandal. I understand he was impeached for lying under oath, but I don't blame him. I don't want the whole world knowing about my private life either. What does it really matter? It doesn't.
Recently, David Letterman announced on air that he had indeed had sexual relationships with women whom he worked with. Surprise, surprise. It's rich and famous. It's what the rich and famous do. Someone tried to extort him for 2 million dollars with this information, and if that's seriously all the "dirt" the guy has, I'm not impressed. I thought Letterman handled the matter humorously and casually, and if you watch the clip, you would think that would be the end of that.
Anoter scandal that happened recently was assemblyman Mike Duvall discussing his affair with someone under a microphone. No, that was not a smart thing to do. But I don't think he should have had to resign over it. If you don't know this story, here is a video.
I'm sure most of you disagree with me :p But that's good. Tell me what you think.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Right to Privacy for ALL Citizens?
Posted by Candice at 10:59 PM
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5 comments:
One little correction: Clinton wasn't impeached, although he should have been.
When I was in the Navy we had a saying: Democracy works for you, unless you work for democracy. It was the military's way of trying to be funny about all the freedoms we had voluntarily surrendered in service to our country. I think something similar happens when you are a public servant (they are still servants of the public right?). Sacrificing your private life is the price of holding a public office.
Oh, that's embarrassing. I can't ever remember if he was or not. I suppose I don't know much about that era. I ought to do my research first I think. Lesson learned ;p
Hehe.... it happens :)
Yeah he definitely wasn't impeached, which was kind of surprising since he did technically commit perjury, but I do absolutely agree that the act of adultery or any other sexual act performed by politicians or anybody else should not be reason for resignation or even humiliation. Julius Caesar was quite a randy individual but look how much he conquered. It seems like a theme that many great men have had many lovers. I think it goes hand-in-hand with being alpha male.
Basically said, I'd rather my President by an adulterer than to be incompetent.
I agree with you 100%! It is funny that their is a right to privacy, but the public capture your public life like a hawk! I think it is their business not ours to judge them. Someone should not be impeached or whatever based their affairs.
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