How to convert object file back to readable?

I have converted some c++ file to object file by my Cygwin. The command is "g++ -c -o program.o program.cc" . program.cc is my original c++ source code.
Now, program.o is unreadable at least by notepad. So, it there any way to read it? Maybe by some "converter" or by some amazing text editor?
Thanks.

Sorry for re-posting. I just want to clarify that "unreadable" here means human-unreadable only. The program itself is still 100% ok.

Are you trying to decompile the code or what?? reverse engineering?

Originally posted by ninebit
Are you trying to decompile the code or what?? reverse engineering?

Actually, I am just wondering whether it is save to give out the object file. Because I want to keep the content of my program secret. If there is method to make it readable, then I will probably not give out the object file.

Make sure there is no debug information in your object file. Look into your compilers helpfile how to turn debug on/off.

In a release build, the object file should be safe from the casual observer. There is no easy way to reverse the compiling process.

However, professional code breakers and assembly veteran's will have no problem with it. You won't face many of them though... it's cheaper to hire someone to write your code again than to find out how you did it.

Originally posted by nvoigt
Make sure there is no debug information in your object file. Look into your compilers helpfile how to turn debug on/off.

In a release build, the object file should be safe from the casual observer. There is no easy way to reverse the compiling process.

However, professional code breakers and assembly veteran's will have no problem with it. You won't face many of them though... it's cheaper to hire someone to write your code again than to find out how you did it.

1. Why "no debug information" is important?
2.What do you mean by "release build"? I use Cygwin B20 (g++ compiler). Is it safe then?