Syllabus: Whistleblowing
Source: FT
Context: The World Economic Forum (WEF) is conducting an internal investigation into its founder Klaus Schwab after whistleblower allegations of ethical and financial misconduct.
About Whistleblowing:
- Definition: Whistleblowing is the lawful disclosure of misconduct or unethical activity within an organization to authorized entities.
- Ethical Basis:
- Aristotelian Ethics: Focuses on moral character rather than just rules or consequences.
- Ross’s Prima Facie Duty Theory: In whistleblowing, the duty to prevent harm and promote justice outweighs the duty of loyalty to one’s employer.
- Bhagavad Gita – “Karmanye vadhikaraste” meaning one must perform one’s duty without attachment to results, even in face of adversity.
Key Features of Whistleblowing:
- Right Information: Involves exposing violations of law, fraud, corruption, abuse of authority, or threats to public safety.
- Protected Disclosure: Done through authorized channels like an internal ombudsman, regulator, or court.
- Scope: Applies to both government and corporate wrongdoing (e.g. insider trading, embezzlement, toxic workplace).
- Anonymity and Protection: Effective mechanisms often ensure identity safeguards and protection from retaliation.
Importance of Whistleblowing in Ethics:
- Promotes Accountability: 2018 whistleblower complaint in a major bank led to top-level resignations and internal audits.
- Protects Public Interest: Helps avert systemic failures (e.g. housing...
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