The Minefield How much control should corporations have over the speech of their employees?
Nov 13, 2024
Josh Bornstein, an employment and labor relations lawyer and author of "Working for the Brand," dives into the fraught intersection of corporate power and employee free speech. He discusses the chilling effect of corporate policies on political expression, especially in industries like journalism. The conversation critically explores how large corporations, driven by public pressure, often compromise ethical commitments, raising questions about accountability and the alarming erosion of worker rights in today’s digital landscape.
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Corporate Power Rivaling Government
- Power once monopolized by governments has shifted significantly to private corporations.
- Corporate power's magnitude and societal impact merit scrutiny similar to state power.
Workplace as Soft Tyranny
- Employees often trade personal data and expression rights for convenience and employment.
- Workplace egalitarianism is lacking compared to political democratic ideals.
Employment vs Government Power
- Employment differs fundamentally from government relationships; employers can require attendance and performance.
- However, private contracts limiting freedoms can conflict with democratic ideals and need deep examination.
