IT revision, pages 72-77 (text book)

Pages 72-77

Moral and ethical issues:

Using IT systems and devices can bring various moral and ethical issues into consideration.

Moral - Principles about what is right and wrong behaviour.

Ethical - Relating to the knowledge of moral principles: That is, how we behave.

The moral and ethical factors of the use of information technology:

What people view as morally right and what is the right ethical approach will vary per person, people may have different views depending on backgrounds or religion. 

Privacy:

Often, people using digital devices may become vulnerable to being hacked such as their phone calls being intercepted. This is one example which is seen as morally wrong. Listening into conversations without permission is dangerous and seen as unethical. This can happen either digitally through interception or through overhearing. When phone calls are being held in public places people can easily listen in, and if the conversation is sensitive and communications are being discussed in regard to customers details such as addresses then this can be potentially dangerous. One reason why the data protection act and freedom of information act were introduced was so people could access the information held about them by governments. Companies will often list privacy policies on their website to make customers aware of what they can and can not do and the issues surrounding ethical and moral issues.

Environmental:

One example of environmental factors surrounding ethical and moral issues is the disposal of IT equipment such as hardware and printer cartridges, which may be carcinogenic. The use of technology also impacts on the environment by draining natural resources and adding to our carbon footprint. However, with the use of the internet people have become more aware of the environment and how to protect it. For instance, charities can promote their messages and seek to fund from numerous sources. However, morally this method of promotion can also be considered less fortunate than ourselves, especially when TV appeals are shown at mealtimes when they are more likely to reach a wider audience.

Unequal access to information technology:

Another ethical and moral consideration is the inequality regarding access to IT. Although much is being done to improve the access to IT systems for all people, through adapted devices or assistive technology, there is still a large percentage of the world's population without any access to IT systems. This is a main ethical issue which surrounds people in eastern countries and their inability to access devices. Also, the use of call centres and customer service centres being built in poor countries by large companies so they don't have to pay workers as much is also an ethical issue. However, there are also issues regarding western countries such as US and UK and children. For instance, if they don't have the latest technology then they can become a victim of bullying.

Online behaviour and netiquette:

Some people's interpretation of what good behaviour is online can vary. However, companies such as Facebook will often inform users of what…