On a message board, Ms. G. C. from Miami writes,

Heres the problem: an interior decorators bid is broken down into two parts (A) the decorators services and (B) the cost of labor and supplies. Most customers think (B) is a fixed cost-they forget its not the decorators fault if cabinetmakers charge an arm and a leg. So, where do customers look closest when comparing costs? Thats right, (A) the decorators fee.

Well, decorators are creative people and for years theyve been doing some very creative bidding. Theyve been lowballing (A) and padding (B), expecting laborers to kick back a percentage of their inflated fees to the decorator. Surprised? Everyones doing it. Everyone, that is, except me. Its deceptive. As a Christian, I think its just plain wrong.

The customers final cost is about the same either way you cut it, so most decorators dont feel theyre doing anything wrong. Are they right? Needless to say, blowing the whistle on such a

widespread and accepted practice would only damage my professional reputation.

6. Imagine that Mrs. G. C. from Miami reveals her name and makes a whistle-blowing cause out of her unhappiness with the standard practice in her profession.

o What kind of reprisals and negative effects might she expect?

o Do you believe whistle-blowing is justified in this situation? Why or why not?

o Is it required? Why or why not?