Over the past few years, I've pondered the reasons why a lot of the nasty workplace situations I've either observed or been a part of occur.

At first, I thought that I was generated by a few chosen jerks. Then maybe by businesses themselves. Or maybe certain types of businesses...

I have concluded that a worldwide shift of norms has taken place. I also believe it is driven by increasing financial and population pressures.

Just a generation ago, stay-at-home moms were common. Few can afford to raise a family on one income now.

Christmas bonuses were handed out to nearly every one with a job, even it if was a paper route. One would have to possess a paper route or be a Wall Streeet broker to get a decent one today.

As I've noted in recent blogs, and evidenced by posts here at Jobschmob.com, even the company holiday party has been reduced to stale cracker-and-cheese affairs at a rundown dive where half-price shots are available.

If you've been caught in cultural crossfire, or value human decency, you are screwed in this environment.

There are business managers and even owners that would rather lose in the long run rather than than give an inch up. When I left the Radio Station From Hell, I was the only person there that knew how to run the station automation, was the best production person (the owner's words), and had a degree.

They only panicked when it was obvious that the minimum wage wonders they brought on board wouldn't cut it.

Their bottom line? We'd rather go out of business that give you the money you need and deserve to stay on. And really how much different is this than a terrorist that says "I can't beat you but I can thwart you" by blowing themselves up in a crowd of innocent people?

I'd really like your thoughts and feedback on this...