The Ethics of Whistleblowing: Balancing Disclosure and Integrity

Section 9.4.2 of the Ethics of Information book summarizes the ACM Code of Ethics for software professionals. For discussion, identify one principle that legitimizes whistleblowing and another that may conflict with the act of whistleblowing.

Whistleblowing follows the ACM principle of "Disclose information that others ought to know." This rule underlines the ethical commitment for disclosure when there is a potential threat involved, more so when safety or wellbeing becomes compromised. Whistleblowing is often carried out in accordance with this rule-the reprehensible practice brought to light in service of the greater good. Whistleblowing can, nonetheless violate the principle of "Maintain your integrity," considering loyalty to the employer. Blowing the whistle, however, is generally considered an act of breach of confidentiality and a form of disloyalty; hence, blowing the whistle on wrongdoing presents an ethical dilemma.