Sustainability, Social, Legal, and Ethics Issues in Computing Lecture 1 (Fall 2024)

SUSTAINABILITY, SOCIAL ,LEGAL AND ETHICS ISSUES IN COMPUTING Lecture 1 : Introduction Sherif H. El-Gohary , Phd SCH 163 - Fall 2024 Based on slides prepared by Cyndi Chie, Sarah Frye and Sharon Gray.Fifth edition updated by Timothy Henry UNDERSTANDING IS...

SUSTAINABILITY, SOCIAL ,LEGAL AND ETHICS ISSUES IN COMPUTING Lecture 1 : Introduction Sherif H. El-Gohary , Phd SCH 163 - Fall 2024 Based on slides prepared by Cyndi Chie, Sarah Frye and Sharon Gray.Fifth edition updated by Timothy Henry UNDERSTANDING ISSUES IN COMPUTER SCIENCE Computer Science, an ever-expanding field of study, is not without its complexities and challenges. A grasp of these issues is crucial to coders, developers, entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in making significant strides in this digital era.  EXPLORING THE COMPLEXITIES OF COMPUTER SCIENCE We often think of computing systems in terms of the everyday conveniences they provide: the ability to fire off an email at a moment's notice, stream an album in real-time, or conduct research from anywhere with a tablet or laptop. However, beneath these highly polished interactions, lies an intricate world filled with complex issues. Complexity in computer science refers to the nature of problems that cannot be solved with a straightforward approach and require analytical and advanced mathematical models and techniques.  THE COMPLEXITIES OF COMPUTER SCIENCE PRIMARILY REVOLVE AROUND THE FOLLOWING AREAS: Algorithms Efficiency: An algorithm is a step-by-step procedure for calculations. The efficiency of an algorithm is evaluated based on time complexity and space complexity. Security and Privacy: With increasing amounts of data being transferred and stored online, there are severe concerns about data integrity, confidentiality, and availability. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML): These emerging fields present new layers of complexity to coding, development, and implementation. The comprehension and resolution of these complexities are central to effective functioning, continuous evolution, and progress in computer science. IDENTIFYING THE KEY CHALLENGES IN MODERN COMPUTING  Different Issues in Computer Science Legal Issues What’s actually considered right or Ethical Issues wrong by the law. Social Issues What’s considered How people of different morally ‘right’ or cultures (e.g. religion, ‘wrong’. country, ethnic group) are affected, but also its social impact. Environmental Issues Privacy Issues Impact on the natural Respecting users’ wishes on world, e.g. carbon the level of disclosure of footprint, pollution, information, and protecting “e-waste”. this data. DEBATING ETHICAL QUANDARIES IN COMPUTING The field of computer science is not immune to ethical complications and disagreements. Numerous dilemmas arise from the digital nature of our modern lives. As the dependence on digital systems increases, so does the significance of these ethical conundrums. Ethics in computer science is the branch of applied philosophy which studies and addresses moral dilemmas pertaining to computer technologies, as well as the conduct of the professionals involved in these systems. DEBATING ETHICAL QUANDARIES IN COMPUTING  SOME OF THE PRESSING ETHICAL ISSUES IN COMPUTER SCIENCE ARE: Data Privacy: With vast amounts of personal data being collected and stored, questions of who has access to this information, how it's being used, or who it's being sold to become critical. Social Media Ethics: The role of social media platforms, including issues surrounding freedom of speech, hate speech, misinformation, and political manipulation, carries significant ethical concerns. Algorithmic Bias: Algorithms, which have important consequences on people’s lives, can unwittingly perpetuate, or even amplify, bias and discrimination. Artificial Intelligence Ethics: The ethical implications of AI, including its impact on jobs and concerns about autonomous weapon systems, are hotly debated topics. Responsibility in Software Development: The issue of who bears the responsibility when software fails is both complex and significant.  DEALING WITH UNCHARTERED TERRITORIES IN COMPUTER SCIENCE ETHICS As computer science moves into unchartered territories, so do the ethical issues it raises. These emerging ethical issues are different because they center around less-established sectors of technology where regulation and ethical frameworks continue to be developed. Emerging ethical issues refer to challenges and dilemmas brought about by innovations and advancements in technology that have not been sufficiently addressed or regulated by existing ethical or legislative frameworks. DEALING WITH UNCHARTERED TERRITORIES IN COMPUTER SCIENCE ETHICS  UNPACKING THE SOCIO-TECHNOLOGICAL FACTORS IN COMPUTER SCIENCE In light of the evolving digital landscape, computer science as a field is confronted with several socio-technological factors. These factors not only shape computing innovations but also get deeply influenced by them. Therefore, their acknowledgement provides a comprehensive roadmap for socially responsible technological advancement. Socio-technological factors in computer science encompass all societal and technological aspects that interactively shape technological development, deployment, and its societal implications.  SOME OF THE KEY SOCIO-TECHNOLOGICAL FACTORS THAT DISCERNINGLY IMPACT THE FIELD OF COMPUTER SCIENCE ARE: Advancements in Coding: Advancements in coding practices, languages, and platforms underline indispensably evolving technological paradigms, implicating both software-design practices and professional skill requirements. Digital Literacy: This constitutes the capabilities needed to effectively engage with digital technologies, shaping user interactions with computing systems markedly. Cybersecurity: The expanding digital realm necessitates robust cybersecurity measures, shaping technological advancement, and demand for specialised expertise. Regulatory Frameworks: Guidelines and laws for data management, privacy, AI, and other technological aspects profoundly influence technological progression pathways. Sociocultural Context: Various societal expectations, beliefs, and value systems shape technological acceptance, deployment, and influence societal impact. ADDRESSING SOCIAL IMPLICATIONS OF TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATIONS Technological innovations don't exist in a vacuum; they have significant social implications, impacting different facets of life and society. Recognizing these implications is vital for leveraging technology as a tool for constructive societal change. Social implications of technological innovations refer to the influences that technological advancements exert on society, impacting various sectors like public policy, education, employment, and social interactions. KEY SOCIAL IMPLICATIONS ON THE HORIZON OF COMPUTER SCIENCE ARE: Addressing these social implications requires coherent efforts from all stakeholders, including policymakers, technologists, educators, business leaders, and social advocates. It is through this joint endeavour that technology can contribute constructively to societal growth and transformation. Example: Take online education as an example. While it has expanded the accessibility of education, it has also unveiled issues like the digital divide and virtual learning difficulties. Addressing these issues requires not only technological solutions, such as better and affordable internet services but also engaging pedagogical strategies that can sustain students’ engagement and learning in online formats.  LEGAL ISSUES IN COMPUTER SCIENCE Navigating the Legal Landscape in Computer Science The legal aspects of computer science encompass a wide range of topics that are central to the creation, distribution, and use of digital products and services. With digital technology increasingly at the heart of global commerce as well as society itself, navigating this terrain has become more important than ever before. Legal landscape in computer science indicates the combination of laws, regulations, rules, judicial decisions, and professional norms that shape and direct the activities of those involved in the development and application of computer technology.  A FEW OF THE MOST IMPORTANT LEGAL CORNERSTONE TOPICS IN COMPUTER SCIENCE ARE: Intellectual Property: This includes the protection of assets such as software, algorithms, and databases, using patents, copyright law, and trade secret law. Data Privacy and Security: These govern the protection of personal and sensitive data against unauthorized access or manipulation, often guided by regulations such as General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA). Software Licensing: This ensures the lawful use and distribution of software products, potentially including open-source software, depending on the license agreement. AI and Machine Learning: These innovative technologies bring a myriad of legal considerations, including algorithm bias, decision transparency, and accountability. THE INTERSECTION OF LAW AND TECH: A CLOSER LOOK The intersection of technology and law in a digital age presents both challenges and opportunities. With each passing year, new technologies usher in innovative ways for humans to interact, work, learn, and entertain, transforming society at a fast pace. However, the same technologies also raise complex and far-reaching legal issues. The intersection of Law and Tech refers to the point where technological progress intersects with legal frameworks, giving rise to unique challenges and opportunities, and requiring a dual understanding of both technological and legal aspects. HERE’S A CLOSER GLANCE AT SOME OF THE CRITICAL ISSUES AT THIS INTERSECTION:  ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES IN COMPUTER SCIENCE In the drive toward global digitalization, it's crucial to consider the environmental footprint of computer science. As the global reliance on digital technology increases, so too does the demand for energy to power these digital infrastructures, leading to higher greenhouse gas emissions.  The tech industry is also a significant contributor to electronic waste, a pressing environmental issue.  UNDERSTANDING GREEN COMPUTING The term 'green computing,' also known as 'ICT sustainability,' refers to the environmentally responsible and eco-friendly use of computers and their resources. It involves designing, manufacturing, using, and disposing of computers, servers, and associated subsystems with minimum impact on the environment. Green computing, or ICT sustainability, is the environmentally responsible use of computers and related resources. This involves the implementation of energy-efficient central processing units (CPUs), servers, peripherals, reduced resource use, and proper electronic waste disposal. IN A BROADER CONTEXT, GREEN COMPUTING INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING: Energy Efficiency: This implies developing hardware, software, and systems that require less energy, reducing carbon footprints. Resource Optimization: Resource usage must be optimized to ensure minimum harmful impact on the environment. This includes the optimization of raw material usage and the reduction of energy consumption. E-Waste Reduction: The influence of electronic waste is a significant concern. Green computing aims to reduce e-waste by promoting recycling and proper disposal methods. Green computing is an active area in the tech industry due to three key reasons: Legal requirements in certain countries compel companies to be environmentally responsible, customers in the digital age demand environmentally sound products, and most importantly, there's a universal obligation to preserve nature and the planet.  COMBATING ENVIRONMENTAL CHALLENGES WITH COMPUTER SCIENCE Whilst computer science contributes towards environmental challenges, it also offers a number of solutions to mitigate them. By developing innovative technologies, practices, and principles, computer science can drive environmental sustainability and facilitate the path towards a cleaner, healthier environment. Environmental computing uses the tools and methodologies of computer science and information technology to aid environmental science research, simulate and model environmental processes and phenomena, and develop solutions to environmental problems. KEY AREAS WHERE COMPUTER SCIENCE CAN AID ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY ARE:  EXAMINING PRIVACY CONCERNS IN THE DIGITAL AGE As we increasingly live our lives online, our personal data proliferates across various digital platforms, generating significant privacy concerns. These concerns emanate naturally from the repercussions of information misuse, privacy invasion, and identity theft, amongst others. Therefore, navigating the terrain of privacy in the connected digital era calls for astute sensibilities. Digital privacy refers to the protection of personal information shared in online spaces. This includes shielding sensitive data against unauthorized access, misuse, disclosure, or alteration. DIGITAL PRIVACY TYPICALLY CENTERS AROUND THE FOLLOWING THEMES: Data Privacy: The protection of personal, sensitive data is paramount in ensuring digital privacy. This primarily includes adhering to principles like data minimization, purpose limitation, and data retention limitations in data handling. Communication Privacy: Ensures private, secure communication channels, preventing unauthorized surveillance, eavesdropping, or message interception. Identity Protection: This pertains to safeguarding one’s identity, protecting against impersonation, and misuse of personal identifiers. User Control: Empowers users to control their information, implying informed consent, access, correction, and erasure rights. BALANCING TECH PROGRESS AND USER PRIVACY  BALANCING TECH PROGRESS AND USER PRIVACY On the one hand, advancements in technology offer novel opportunities for social connectivity, economic growth, advancement in healthcare, education, and more. On the contrary, these advancements often tread on personal spheres, posing significant privacy risks. Striking a balance between technological progress and maintaining user privacy is, therefore, a pressing concern in the digital age. Balancing tech progress and user privacy involves formulating regulations, technologies, practices, and ethical standards that foster tech advancements while respecting, protecting, and promoting user privacy. FUNDAMENTAL STRATEGIES TO MATERIALIZE THIS BALANCE WOULD INCLUDE:  ISSUES IN COMPUTER SCIENCE - KEY TAKEAWAYS Issues in Computer Science entail the various challenges and complexities inherent in computer science domain. Common difficulties in computer science include algorithm efficiency, security and privacy issues, complexities introduced by AI and ML, security against cyber-attacks, managing system complexities, designing scalable systems, and maintaining interoperability among diverse systems. Delving into Current Ethical Issues in Computer Science: The area of study focused on identifying and addressing the key ethical issues present in evolving digital arena. Ethical Quandaries in Computing include data privacy, social media ethics, algorithmic bias, AI ethics, and responsibility in software development. Environmental Issues in Computer Science concern the environmental Footprint of computer science, including increased energy demand, greenhouse gas emissions, and electronic waste (E-waste).