The Ethics of Whistleblowing (Routledge Focus on Philosophy)

Book Details

• Author: Eric R. Boot

• Brand: Routledge

• Edition: 1

• Binding: Hardcover

• ISBN: 9781138343696

• Number of Pages: 104

• Release Date: 14-05-2019

• Languages: English

• Package Dimensions: 8.7 x 5.8 x 0.5 inches

About the Book

"The Ethics of Whistleblowing" by Eric R. Boot delves into the complex and often contentious ethical issues surrounding the act of whistleblowing, especially in light of high-profile cases involving figures like Chelsea Manning and Edward Snowden. While whistleblowing has sparked enormous political, legal, and media attention, the deeper ethical questions at its core are often overlooked.

Boot addresses fundamental issues such as:

• Can the disclosure of classified government documents ever be ethically justified, and if so, how?

• Why is justification required for whistleblowing in the first place?

• Does an individual ever have a moral duty to blow the whistle?

• Under what circumstances, if any, is breaking the law justified in the name of exposing wrongdoing?

The book not only explores these philosophical questions but also tackles the practical side of whistleblowing. Boot examines existing whistleblower protection documents and critiques their inconsistencies and lack of clarity. Drawing from these discussions, he proposes a "public interest" defense for whistleblowers, offering a well-reasoned argument for a more consistent and ethical approach to whistleblower protection.

Ideal for students, professionals, and anyone interested in the ethical and legal dimensions of whistleblowing, this book provides a rigorous examination of one of the most pressing ethical issues of our time.