In the scenario where Ruth offers Tim a job in exchange for sex, is this considered sexual harassment?

This situation is considered harassment under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act because it involves a quid pro quo scenario, which directly relates to employment and sexual favors. Under Title VII, any unwelcome sexual advances in the context of employment can constitute harassment if they create a hostile work environment or are used as a condition for employment decisions.

In this context, Ruth's offer to Tim ties his employment to a sexual favor, which places undue pressure on him and undermines his ability to make a free and informed choice regarding his job. This type of conduct is explicitly prohibited as it affects the terms and conditions of employment based on sex. The law aims to prevent discrimination in the workplace, and such offers not only create an unfair power dynamic but also violate the standard of appropriate conduct expected in professional relationships.

Factors like mutual consent or coercion will not alter the fundamental illegality of the situation; the essence of the issue lies in the misuse of power and the demands placed upon an individual in the workplace. Therefore, it is critical to recognize this behavior as a clear violation of workplace rights as defined by federal law, supporting the assertion that it constitutes harassment.