Whistle-blowing is to report dangerous or improper business behavior. West's Business Law explains that in the past employees who exposed illegal activities frequently found themselves disciplined for even fired. In some states, such as California, Connecticut, Maine, Michigan and New York, these people are supposed to be protected and should be able to get their job back or get back pay from an unethical firing. Many states uphold the "fire at will" doctrine. Some companies may transfer the employee where he/she is less comfortable. The employee can be constructively discharged through harassment by peers. Whistle-blower sympathizers are trying to appeal to corporations saying that it is costly to uphold unsafe business practices.

Black's Law further states that even though whistle-blowing can be in the best interest of the public, too often pressure from peers cause people to tolerate or ignore unethical behavior.

What else can happens to the whistle blower? There is something called blacklisting. The employee is unable to get employment in that industry and possibly others. They can try to move, possibly to another country. They can offer a peace offering, hoping to satisfy the employer. You don't want to meet up with unethical behavior. Walk the other direction.

Learn more about this author, Julie Caulfield.
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