1. Amgen's Code of Ethics emphasizes "Doing the Right Thing." The code suggests that employees should resolve ethical dilemmas by considering the legality of proposed actions, compliance with company policies, Amgen's values, and an analysis of ethical issues including rights and respect. Identify the areas where the allegations by Shawn O'Brien and the alleged retaliation seem to contradict the principles and practices embodied in the code.
2. Explain what is meant by whistleblowing? Include in your discussion the difference between internal and external whistleblowing. Given the facts of the case, do you think O'Brien took the right steps to report his concerns about Amgen's process for dealing with post-market complaints about drugs as a potential problem? Are there any other steps he might have taken?
3. Evaluate O'Brien's actions from an ethical perspective. That is, what motivated him to act as he did? Consider in your response how O'Brien's actions fit in to Kohlberg's model of moral development.