Well, I don't think it's a question of whether salaries should be kept secret or not, I think it's a question of whether one should access data he's not supposed to just because he can.
I find it interesting that this is getting down-modded.
I think the ethics of IT is an interesting and important subject, and I was surprised to see someone unabashedly admitting to using his position to read confidential material.
I don't think our industry has a good enough set of accepted ethical guidelines, and I'd like to see that change.
I did at one point (metaphorically) sign the bank transfers. At that point the company only had 3 people in it and we all knew everything so I don't think that counts.
Anyway, how does it matter whether or not I'm in charge? The question is, I think it's a good idea, why don't you?
I've been taught to "Never look into another man's wallet, it will either make you prideful or insecure" and have found it to be true.
I think everyone needs to work out their own deal with their own boss; sharing your pay is your choice; looking at others without their permission is taking that choice away from them.