Reference no: EM133187158

The fall of Theranos and several other companies were based on whistle-blowers who came forward. Many of you have watched movies about whistle-blowers like Erin Brockovich or Karen Silkwood.  These additional resources provide insight on the history and perceptions of whistle-blowers. Many people do not think they will be a whistle-blower but find themselves in an unfortunate ethical position facing a line in the sand that they feel they can't cross. Others take the position they don't want to jeopardize their career or get involved because they need their job to pay their bills and take care of their families. The questions are what motivates whistle-blowers to come forward knowing that their career and reputation could suffer and could you be a whistle-blower?

1. Summarize the history of whistle-blowing including how the laws have changed. Have these changes in the law served to further protect whistle-blowers? Explain.
2. You are faced with knowing that a new program in your company is based on faulty data. Would you report it knowing you could lose your job? Would it change your position if the program could affect people's lives like Theranos?
3. How can companies distinguish between whistle-blowers or just a disgruntled employee who doesn't like new programs or technologies?
4. What lessons should companies and investors learn from these cases?
5. Explain what potential changes you would make to identify a more ethical solution for this issue