[karldcampbell]

IMO the "I take full responsibility" line isn't directed at the people being laid off; It's directed at the people who are left.

It says to the middle management layer "I'm not going to blame or fire you because we had to lay people off."

[jacquesm]

No, it is aimed at the shareholders and the press and its purpose is to ensure that the ship is in safe hands and please don't fire the CEO.