Whistleblower: One who reveals wrongdoing within an organization to
the public or to those in positions of authority
The thing about whistleblowing is that the term often brings with
it a certain amount of publicity and satisfied vindictiveness. It
isn't just about bringing up an issue but about BLOWING up an
issue. (Hence WHISTLE blow, like policeman.)
The big danger with whistleblowing is how it first invokes fear in
the society. You don't do something not because you understand it
is wrong, but because you are afraid to get caught.
Secondly, it empowers an individual with the right to threaten, and
invoke punishment. It is something that can be so easily abused it
isnt funny. This is a very dangerous step because it is just a thin
line away from a witch hunt.
Thirdly, it builts distrust amongst society. Yesterday you were the
bystander. Today you are the whistleblower. Will you be the
whistle-blowEE tommorrow?
Of course, sometimes it is RIGHT to whistleblow. E.g. If you see
your neighbour abusing his child, and you inform the police... and
the police investigates and if there is evidence, your neighbours
gets convicted. But it gets a bit out of hand if you inform the
police, then inform the RCs, then inform the press - before the
investigation takes place.
Ideally, It would be great to correct wrongs through education,
example, encouragement, err.. suitable deterrents. And only when
these have completely failed.. well, we move on. But. -shrugs-
looks like our goverrnment is looking at whistleblowing as a cue to
responsible citizenship nowadays.
