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Introduction to Computer Ethics

• Computers are highly influential in modern life, impacting society more significantly than the Industrial Revolution.
• Internet usage exceeds 700 million globally.
• Despite numerous benefits, computer misuse creates social and ethical problems, incurring around $50 billion in reported computer crimes annually.

Historical Development of Computer Ethics

• Norbert Wiener of MIT, in the 1940s, questioned technology's potential for human destruction.
• His book, "The Human Use of Human Being," explored philosophical aspects of computer ethics, examining human purpose, societal justice, and practical applications.
• Donn Parker, in the 1960s, focused on unethical/illegal computer use, emphasizing the ethical compromises during computer use.
• Walter Maner introduced the first dedicated computer ethics course and workshops in the 1970s.
• Computer ethics became a significant social/political issue in the US and Europe in the 1980s.
• James Moor, at Dartmouth College, contributed significantly in the 1980s with an article addressing what exactly constitutes computer ethics.
• The 1990s saw numerous contributions from scholars like Simon Rogerson, Keith Miller, and Dianne Martin.

Defining Computer Ethics

• Walter Maner defined computer ethics as an area studying moral issues arising from computer use.
• Deborah Johnson defined it as a field examining how computers raise ethical issues, necessitating re-evaluation of conventional ethical theories.
• Terrell Bynum (related to Wiener's work) defined it as analyzing the impact of information technology on human values.
• Donald Gotterbarm views it as a subfield of professional ethics, establishing guidelines for computer professionals.

Topics in Computer Ethics

• Computers in the Workplace: Computers threaten jobs due to their efficiency and minimal maintenance requirements.
• Computer Crime: Threats include hacking and the creation of malicious software like viruses, worms, Trojans, logic bombs, and bacteria.
• Privacy and Anonymity: Personal data is susceptible to misuse.
• Intellectual Property: Software ownership and copyright issues are complex, with different perspectives on free vs. proprietary software.
• Professional Responsibility: Computer professionals face significant ethical responsibilities due to their influential positions within society. Ethical conflicts and potential conflicts of interest need careful consideration.
• Globalization: Computer ethics is evolving into global information ethics, addressing cross-cultural values and standards.

Common Problems in Computer Ethics

• Privacy violations: Hacking, malicious software, data misuse.
• Intellectual property issues: Copyright infringement, software piracy, cracked software.
• Computer abuse: Misuse of computer resources or systems.

Impact of Computer Ethics on Society

• Jobs: Some jobs are lost, while others are made easier or more efficient by computers.
• Environmental Impact: Increased energy consumption leads to environmental concerns.
• Social Impact: Greater communication and connectivity, but also potential for isolation.