ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the feasibility of employing ethics instruction to reduce the moral bystander problem and encourage responsible whistleblowing in the military. It summarizes research on the bystander effect which explains why some individuals passively stand by while their colleagues engage in illegal or unprofessional behaviour. The chapter reviews whistleblowing research which demonstrates why individuals can be reluctant to report the transgressions of their workmates. It shows how turning a blind eye while unit mates violate laws and professional codes is inconsistent with the tenets of military professionalism. The chapter considers the cognitive and motivational challenges bystanders and whistle-blowers face, along with a number of the common errors and biases which can keep them from making sound decisions. It discusses the pros and cons of trying to solve the bystander/whistle-blower problem with selection tests. The chapter also reviews ethics training effectiveness research for insights on how training may help.
