I was a software engineer as well at both Intel Corp and Phoenix Technologies where I received my highest promotion and salary in ’09 as a newly promoted Principal Release Engineer ($120k).
You present sound arguments based upon your own experience. Where I disagree with you is in your conclusion.
Any company worth their salt, Intel being the best I’ve worked for, strived for openess, and in fact, their behavior conduct was printed on the back of every employees badge, up to the CEO. While they had many bullets which I’ve long forgotten, a few stand out, which basically stated:
1. Do the right thing (clearly, a moral message).
2. You have the right to voice your view AS LONG AS YOU CAN BACK IT UP WITH DATA.
3. Implied personal integrity.
This person got fired because Google has very poor management practices in place. They swept this issue under the rug, but is still there. They need to get their house in order.
Personally, if you were my manager, my demeanor would show my lack of respect for you. Why? You didn’t earn it.