So says Jon Robin Baitz in his latest salvo, a bracing commentary on the Voices of Uncertainty video we linked to earlier today. He writes:
I'm hoping that our labor action signals a sea change in American tolerance for corporate greed and disdain for ethics and morals in the relentless pursuit of profit.A week and a half ago, one of my best friends, a young screenwriter and playwright of great talent and greater soul, reminded me that my first thoughts on this subject were clouded by my feelings about how the business works, and my place in it. (Without going into details, my urges as a playwright sometimes fly in the face of the realities of a top 20 network TV show like Brothers & Sisters. ) He reminded me that whatever I may go through personally, I had a responsibility and a forum. As I have said, hearing his anguish broke my heart. I took stock. As I have thought about the issue, my bitterness and sorrow over the limitations of my own abilities and even value as a TV writer have been replaced by the greater understanding that I care deeply about my colleagues -- from the crew, up to the executives -- because that is called citizenship. That is called continuity.
I realize, after watching this clip, that I am sentimental. Ever was it thus. That is a blessing as much as a curse. No such sentiments exist in the hearts of Moonves, Murdoch, Iger, Silverman. I do not envy them. They are sloppy dissemblers. Somehow having risen to power, they are soul-sick and awash in shameless double-speak and reflexive corporate arrogance. These are not enlightened positions from which to lead their businesses into a new age.
