The ethics of cutting household help – Los Angeles Times
April 6th, 2009 by imdgonz
So the lifestyle of the privileged also comes with some pitfalls…Many who can afford private staff never consider the ups and downs of having paid employees around their home and involved in their lives. This article addresses letting staff go in tough times. Enjoy…
An important part of making the right decision here is empathy with the invisible labor market with which we each participate. So if we employ folks who clean our houses or cut our lawns or haul our garbage for us, and we are thinking about cutting them off to save money, I would say: Think about the ethical responsibilities. These are relationships we have. They’re not just transactions.
Posted in Domestic Industry News, The World of Wealth
April 10th, 2009 at 7:15 am
Regarding all Employers,of Household staff.I find that most have never found it practical,to do task,that we provide them with,for themselves.As to cutting back,on such services,is such a huge farce.Without somebody else,to do service and pick up after them,they would most likely be at a loss.Have you made more Money again,at the Stock Market ,today?Dont let anyone fool you,that they cant afford,your Labor and ooh,ahh,living is gettting so unbearably expensive.Dont believe it,not for a minute.Go out,and ask for a raise.it is pitiful,of how painful,they sometimes negate around of what they pay,you.Yet,they go out and buy another porsche or Mercedes.Poor Them.Enough said.
April 15th, 2009 at 4:41 pm
I agree with Gerlinde. Some weathly families believe they can let people go “just because they can” with no consideration for the service provided by their dutiful employees and no regard at all for the impact on the employees livelihood and their own family. Money should not allow a human being to no longer be humane, however it does exist. Perhaps this down economy will impact the wealthy enough that they will wake up and realize that we are all humans and should be treated with equal respect.