Week 12- Whistleblowing

Question 1

What is whistleblowing?

Answer 1

The disclosure by organization members (former/current) of illegal, immoral, or illegitimate practices under the control of their employers, to persons or organizations that may be able to effect action.

Question 2

What are the potential costs of WB?

Answer 2

Challenge to authority structure, threat to organizational viability, limits on control, unpredictability of organization member actions, Increase in litigation, lose your job/benefits

Question 3

What are the potential benefits of WB?

Answer 3

Increase safety and well-being of organization members, support for code of ethics, reduction of mismanagement, improved morale

Question 4

What are the potential costs & benefits of inaction?

Answer 4

Cost: jeopardizing citizens rights, privileges, safety; employee withdrawal; risk to long term organizational survival; escalation of wrongdoing
Benefits: smooth org functioning; avoidance of frivolous complaints; avoidance of damage claims