Compromising Positions Of Power

We all know that “with great power comes great responsibility.” But due to many recent sexual harassment scandals surrounding those in power, it seems as though with power also comes a great lack of ethics.

The head of the International Monetary Fund, Dominique Strauss-Kahn, is facing charges of sexual harassment for allegedly attempting to force a hotel maid into performing oral sex on him. Luckily, she managed to break free from his powerful attempt and Strauss-Kahn thought nothing of it. Unlucky for him, he hopped onto a flight at Kennedy Airport right after as the maid was getting her revenge. He was quickly pulled from the plane after word of his assault was leaked.

Why do people in power constantly find themselves involved in a sexually-based scandal? Surely people are not usually this evil and selfish. It seems as though once a certain level of power is reached, it is easy to view people “below” you as simply another person you can rule over. You gain a sense of self-entitlement, as if everyone is only there to please you or prove themselves to you. you worked hard for your position, so now you can do whatever you want.

Life does not work this way, though. Just because one individual has been elected into a highly sought after position, they do not get to take advantage of others and cause emotional distress. A position of power should come with poise, grace, and acceptance. Promotion of a healthy workplace or comfortable situation should be used, but instead most individuals in this position will do quite the opposite.

I have formulated a list of my “favorite” examples of individuals in power, whether that power be because of elected position, fame, or position in the workplace:

The Archdiocese of Boston

We all remember the scandal surrounding priests and molestation charges. These men were using their power over young boys and the trust they built with them to take advantage of their naive minds and budding sexualities. Hundreds of cases of men came forth to admit their abuse as young boys.

Thomas Jefferson and Sally Hemmings

Going back quite a few years, we have Thomas Jefferson and Sally Hemmings, a slave of his and supposed mother to a few of his children. Using his position of power as President and slave owner, it is said that Jefferson raped Hemmings and impregnated her. Was it rape or was it consensual? The verdict will forever be out, but it is clear that power was at play within this situation. A slave to Jefferson, she could not have said no.

Dov Charney and Female Employees

Dov Charney is the founder and CEO of American Apparel clothing. He also makes me sick. Cases of his sexual requests within in the workplace have become infamous in the past few years. Forcing female workers to masturbate, or “pretend” to, in front of him in order to keep their jobs, calling women “sluts” and “cunts,” and many other bizarre stories of sexual harassment have all been presented, but he remains a free, uncharged man. Clearly using his powerful CEO image, Charney believes he can say or do anything to his workes, as long as he has money to silence them and power over them.

Silvio Berlusconi and Noemi Letizia

Current Italian Prime Minister Berlusconi has been accused of sexual promiscuity and links to prostitution. A large aspect of this scandal surrounds young attractive female Noemi Letizia and their odd relationship. With her calling him “papi” and his strange position in her life, the scandal became widely discussed. Using his position of fame and political power, he brought many young attractive females into his political ring of sexuality.

Roman Polanski and Samantha Geimer

Polanski is a world-class film director, winning Academy awards and gaining much positive acclaim. But has also clearly used this position of fame for evil and has admitted to the statutory rape of 13-year-old girl Samantha Geimer. As a director, the young women he has worked with must listen to his every word and do everything he says. In Geimer’s case, this apparently included ingesting drugs and alcohol, and engaging in anal sex against her will.

Michael Jackson and Children

Michael Jackson was the defendant in one of the most infamous molestation cases of all time. Ultimately winning, Jackson was accused of sexually assaulting young children in his home, The Neverland Ranch. Jackson apparently wished to simply play with the children and relive a childhood that he barely had, but a 40 year old man cannot really do this without being downright creepy.

Akon and 14 Year Old Girl

Singer Akon simulated the rape of a girl at a concert a few years back. A part of his “act,” he justified the sexually charged scene by saying that the venue should not have admitted the girl if she was not 21. So, if she was 21, it would be okay? He clearly thought that because he is Akon, every girl would be honored to be sexually assaulted by him.

Bill Clinton and Monica Lewinsky

Our most famous example of power and sexuality can be seen within the infamous case of President Bill Clinton and intern Monica Lewinsky. Sure, she was the one who gave him oral sex, but I imagine it could be hard to say “no” to the most powerful man in the world.

So, there’s my list of crazy powerful people taking advantage of their positions and hurting others because of it. Look out for those in powerful positions, they may just think you want them to assault you.

Contact the author here: crazycolleen @morningquickie.com