To Be or Not to Be a Whistleblower: An Ethical Inquiry through Virtue Ethics and Beyond

This paper explores the ethical dimensions of whistleblowing using a virtue ethics framework, supported by consequentialism, deontology, social contract theory, and Dominican values. It analyzes the cases of Curtis Ewbank (Boeing), Rebekah Jones (Florida COVID-19 data), and Babak Babakinejad (MIT Media Lab) to illustrate how moral courage, integrity, and justice influence whistleblowing decisions despite personal and institutional risks. Dominican values—truth, justice, compassion, partnership, and community—help frame whistleblowing as a moral act that connects personal virtue to public responsibility. The paper concludes that whistleblowing, when grounded in ethical character and supported by transparent institutions, is a vital component of moral leadership and social integrity.