Which of the following is considered an appropriate action for members when encountering unethical behavior?

Reporting the activity to the compliance department is considered an appropriate action when members encounter unethical behavior because it ensures that the issue is addressed through the proper internal channels. Compliance departments are specifically established to handle ethical concerns and ensure that an organization adheres to legal and regulatory standards. By reporting such issues, members of the organization not only take responsibility for upholding ethical standards but also help protect the interests of the organization, stakeholders, and the public.

This course of action promotes a culture of transparency and accountability, which is essential for maintaining trust within the organization. It also allows for a systematic investigation of the unethical behavior, which is essential for safeguarding the organization's integrity and reputation.

While other options might seem reasonable in certain contexts, they do not align with the best practices for handling unethical behavior. Remaining silent undermines the responsibility to report unethical conduct, as it implies complicity or a lack of accountability. Raising concerns internally may not be effective if those in positions of authority are not responsive or if they are part of the unethical behavior. Consulting external legal counsel before acting can introduce delays and may not be necessary if there are established processes in place within the organization for reporting such incidents.