Concept:
Communication Competence
Scene Description:
Fletcher Reede is a fast-talking attorney—and a habitual liar. He has missed the concept of identity management to justify dishonesty in his personal and business affairs. Reede’s 5-year-old son wishes that his father cannot tell a lie for just one day, and miraculously the wish comes true. In this scene, Reede’s boss calls him into the boardroom meeting to speak to the director of the partnership committee. Because of his son’s wish, Reede begins saying whatever comes to mind. His unedited thoughts and feelings lead to rude and insulting comments about everyone in the room. After a few moments of uncertainty and silence, the head of the partnership committee breaks out in laughter, thinking it is a joke, and encourages Reede to continue. The director says, “He loves a good roast!” (Warning: this scene contains some coarse language.)
Discussion Questions:
- In what ways does Fletcher Reede exhibit communication incompetence?
- How could/should Reede have expressed himself at the meeting? Would it be unethical for him not to share his honest thoughts and feelings?
- Reede’s insensitive disclosures at this meeting received laughter and endorsement. What would be a more likely reaction in a real-life scenario?
- What does this scene suggest about the famous maxim, “Honesty is always the best policy”?
