The present age is distinguished by its rapid technological change, therefore, like many other issues, the moral dilemma became a common topic Among the myriad ethical dilemmas accompanying the rise of computing technology, one fundamental inquiry persists: Sources of Computer Ethics are human beings: they attempt to make a decision and so act in a certain way. more so, it is the ethic of computers, which is an emerging subject for us to study.

Computer Ethics

Indeed, the use of ethics is to the computer side of matters where such ethical behavior has been conveyed to computer ethics. This concept stems from the fact that the ethical issues that machines and informational systems produce have long been raised. It is a multidimensional issue that includes such problems as the source of private information leaks, intellectual rights protection, cybersecurity, the digital divide, etc., and the consequences of the transition of social life to digital forms.

Let’s break it into simple words:

Computer ethics primarily refers to the broader principles, notions, and values that mainstream the decision of whether the behaviors are ethically right or wrong on behalf of a human or machine. It’s like asking questions such as: In the first place, who’s got the right to lurk through someone’s digital record with no one’s acknowledgment? The nature of those bodies that should control citizens’ behaviors on the net and probably limit their freedom of communication has not been defined yet as well as the problem of who is empowered by the companies to control freedom of expression in this area of life. The Policy humanizes the fact that customers, employees, and many other people will have the chance to comply with some of those regulations that will make equality possible while using computers and the Internet.

Some key areas of focus within computer ethics include:

1. Privacy: This brings about worries about the accumulation, retention, and usage of personal information by several organizations and even governments which could erode the trust between them and citizens. The melting point of privacy can be reached by privacy breaches and surveillance.
2. Intellectual Property: Computer ethics overlaps with topics addressing copyright, patent, and trademark norms in the digital space and includes questions about using digital content under the fair use principle as well as creators` rights protection.
3. Cybersecurity: This at least covers different aspects of network and computer systems security which should include measures to prevent data leaks, unauthorized access, cyberattacks, and malicious software or viruses from spreading.
4. Digital Divide: Ethics of computer conduct investigates disparities in access to and then use of computing equipment, with the social element, geography, and demography often contributing to illegitimate capability within group members.
5. Artificial Intelligence (AI) Ethics: As the field of AI and machine learning technologies has become present, computer ethics deals with the ethics of introducing and deploying AI precisely, decorating matters like biases, transparency, accountability, and the probable effect on work and society.
6. Social Impact: Computational ethics; for computer ethics; focuses on the wide range of social implications of technology; including cultural, political, economic, educational, and human relations.
7. Professional Ethics: Ethics of computer science, information technology, and other related professions imply ethical issues that represent specific problems that concern experts such as professional responsibility, deception, integrity, and conflicts of interest.

Who is the father of Computer Ethics?

The computers had been in existence for less than 50 years, and some of these questions were without any answer. The division usually falls in the court of Joseph Weizenbaum, a celebrated computer scientist and philosopher, whose profound and compelling contributions formed the philosophical background for the subsequent ethical dialog on technology. He was born into a life on January 8th, 1923, in Berlin, Germany, and left in Grüben, Germany, on the 5th of March, 2008. Weizenbaum’s seminal work, notably his book “Computer Power and Human Reason: From “Judgment Call to You-Tuber” in the publication year of 1976 is a groundbreaking work on morality in computing.

Weizenbaum did not transverse the terrain by himself but rather other people were also on the job. He was not alone in the effort to construct a theory of computer ethics as others also contributed critically to this area of study. By imparting “computer ethics”, which he transferred to his students, and in his various roles as an educator, Walter Maner played a vital role in offering grounds for discussions about ethical issues in the field of computing By doing that he was laying a foundation upon which the computer ethics as an independent field of research could emerge.

As well as this, Norbert Wiener, who is usually credited as the father of cybernetics, expounded some significant concepts about the law of communication and regulation and these ideas came into play during discourse on the ethics of computing. However, Wiener’s work did not customarily deal with the ethical issues connected with high technology. Still, his particular system of ideas produced the foundation for a particular class of scholars in this area.

Collaboratively, Weizenbaum, Maner, Wiener, and the others contributed to the construction of a path that is inclined, towards the elaboration of a nuanced understanding of the ethical implications of computing tech. They have been working in collaboration with the purpose of not only energizing people to perceive the story of how the modern world is the tangle of technology and ethics with kind intellect and understanding but also making it possible for them to walk it wisely and intelligently.

Therefore, who can be the father of computer ethics? Joseph Weizenbaum, who contributed to and who was himself prompted by his contemporaries and collaborators, is a reference point in the everlasting endeavor towards ethical sensitivity and moral conduct in the field of computer science.

10 Commandments of Computer Ethics

The “10 Commandments of Computer Ethics” are a set of ethical guidelines that outline principles for responsible and ethical computer use. These commandments were first proposed by the Computer Ethics Institute in 1992, aimed at promoting ethical behavior and responsible use of technology. Here are the Ten Commandments of Computer Ethics:

1. Thou shalt not use a computer to harm others: Hence, we should use the above Enlightenment commandment to guide us in our use of technology, which should be directed towards things that do not cause people, groups, or society as a whole distress. It is a reminder of the repercussions of one’s actions on others.
2. Thou shalt not interfere with other people’s computer work: We must realize that the digital space of others is valuable just as much as our own, and any inappropriate interactions violate their right to privacy. This content holds for the rightful access and operations of other people’s computers, data, or job positions with prior authorization.
3. Thou shalt not snoop around in other people’s computer files: Privacy is of critical importance, especially in the modern day and age. This is a means through which the question of the ethics of data privacy is underscored and one is advised to stay away from viewing other peoples’ information unless they are legally authorized.
4. Thou shalt not use a computer to steal: Similar to when stealing physical belongings is considered unethical, digital assets or intellectual properties are also subject to seizure. This commandment thus entails that citizens should scrupulously adhere to principles of fairness and truthfulness in their digital interactions.
5. Thou shalt not use a computer to bear false witness: Because of the deficiency in the verification process and lack of the truth criteria, misrepresentation and lies can amplify in the virtual environment. This commandment provides a foundation for users about truthfulness and accuracy, a base to avoid spreading false information and online fraud, among other matters.
6. Thou shalt not copy or use proprietary software for which you have not paid: Just like the physical world, intellectual property needs to be protected in the spaciousness of the digital space as well. This behind-the-laws reissue makes the persons keep in mind the copyright privileges and the licensing agreements when using the software. It therefore assures them the right to acquire permissions and payment of money for the desired software.
7. Thou shalt not use other people’s computer resources without authorization or proper compensation: By putting this statement first, the issue of sharing other people’s resources, including their computers, networks, and online means, is highlighted. Users should require permission and give proper remuneration whenever that involves the attribution of the assets.
8. Thou shalt not appropriate other people’s intellectual output: Intellectual property deserves respect just as much as human beings in the digital age. This commandment urges users to do just that: to recognize and respect authors and creators as the real owners of their intellectual property, while avoiding plagiarism and unlicensed use of their work.
9. Thou shalt think about the social consequences of the program you write: The designers and the coders have to take into account the bigger picture of the society to which their software will contribute. This commandment may contribute to ethical considerations and consciousness about the accidental social implications of the programs and systems they build.
10. Thou shalt use a computer in ways that show consideration and respect for others: This way this commandment summarizes the basic idea of sharing empathy and respect in any activity that takes place in the computer environment. It also works as a reminder that other human beings, with their own needs and rights, are behind the usernames and that users should be careful and considerate when engaging in digital interactions which in turn, helps foster a culture of cordiality and responsibility in the online community.

Whereas, The word “thou” is an archaic English pronoun that is the singular form of “you.” It was commonly used in older forms of English, particularly in contexts like religious texts (such as the King James Version of the Bible) and formal writing.

These 10 Commandments of Computer Ethics serve as a moral compass for individuals, organizations, and society as a whole, guiding ethical behavior and responsible use of technology in an increasingly digital world.

Conclusion

In the end, Joseph Weizenbaum is known as the father of computer ethics. He also provided 10 commandments of computer ethics for the latest technology to work ethically.

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