That's What the Money's For!

Whistleblowers

The rise of whistleblowers in the tech industry signifies a growing dissatisfaction among employees with company practices. Eric Newcomer highlights how a handbook led by the Pinterest whistleblower aims to guide employees on becoming whistleblowers, reflecting a workforce that feels internal issues can't be resolved through existing channels 1. While some may seek fame, the risks often outweigh the benefits, as seen in the cases of Snowden and Manning.

Once you get fame, quote, unquote, you don't get to work again.

--- Eric Newcomer

The relentless scrutiny of tech companies, like Facebook, is seen as necessary for change, despite the exhaustion it causes among those in the know 1.

   

Social Media

Social media's deep integration into daily life raises ethical concerns about dependency and influence. Eric Newcomer points out that for many, especially in rural areas, platforms like Facebook are essential for accessing local services, making it difficult to disengage 2. Even those not actively using platforms like Twitter are affected by the opinions and news shaped there.

It's almost like Twitter is the AWS of opinion making.

--- Eric Newcomer

The pervasive nature of social media underscores the challenge of changing these companies while acknowledging their unavoidable presence in modern life 3.