In-Class Discussion Chapter 3: IT Ethics And Privacy 1 ✓ Solved

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In-Class Discussion Chapter 3: IT Ethics and Privacy 1. Describe

1. Describe the fundamental tenets of ethics.

2. Do you feel that the functionality offered by Google Glass out-weighs the potential loss of privacy that the technology could create? Why or why not? Support your answer. Would you use Google Glasses? Why or why not? Support your answer.

3. Is monitoring of Web surfing by managers ethical (It is legal.) Support your answer.

Paper For Above Instructions

The field of ethics is categorized into various fundamental tenets that guide individuals in discerning right from wrong and making responsible decisions. The three primary tenets include responsibility, accountability, and liability. Responsibility entails the duty one has to act in accordance with ethical principles and to accept the consequences of those actions. It implies that individuals are aware of their moral obligations and the potential impacts of their decisions on others (Velasquez, 2014). Accountability relates to being answerable for one's actions, especially in professional settings, which reinforces the principle that decisions should be made carefully, considering how they affect stakeholders. Liability refers to the legal aspect, wherein individuals, organizations, or systems may be held responsible for the damages resulting from their actions, providing legal recourse to those wronged. Understanding these tenets is crucial in discussing the ethical implications of technology, particularly regarding privacy concerns.

When considering emerging technologies like Google Glass, it's essential to weigh the benefits against the potential risks posed to user privacy. Google Glass, as a revolutionary product in wearable technology, offers various functionalities, such as hands-free access to the internet, navigation, and camera features, which enhance user experiences in different contexts, including education and health care. However, these advantages come with significant privacy implications. Critics argue that the ability to record video and capture images discreetly raises moral concerns, as individuals may be unaware that they are being recorded (Fuchs, 2017). From a personal perspective, I believe that while the functionality of Google Glass is indeed impressive, the potential invasion of privacy it brings outweighs these benefits. In an era where personal privacy is increasingly under threat from technology, I would refrain from using Google Glass due to fears of unwarranted surveillance and the impact it could have on personal interactions.

The ethical discourse surrounding workplace monitoring, particularly regarding web surfing by managers, raises pertinent questions about the intersection of legality and morality. While it is legal to monitor employees' web activities, the ethicality of such practices largely depends on the intent behind the monitoring. Organizations have a responsibility to maintain productivity and ensure that employees are utilizing work resources appropriately. Monitoring can serve legitimate purposes, such as preventing illegal activities or assessing performance, thereby holding employees accountable for their actions (Harvard Business Review, 2020). However, the ethical implications become murky if the monitoring is conducted purely out of suspicion or for personal gain, such as control or blackmail. I align with the view that monitoring is ethical, provided it is carried out transparently and for purposes aligned with organizational goals rather than personal agendas. Ultimately, organizations must strike a balance, fostering a supportive environment while ensuring accountability.

Furthermore, the arguments presented by Julian Lao highlight a vital perspective on this issue. While monitoring can be justified from a managerial standpoint, it is crucial for companies to establish clear policies that define the boundaries and ethical considerations of such practices. In conclusion, the ethicality of web surfing monitoring is contingent on the underlying motivations for such actions and the frameworks established within organizations. When implemented thoughtfully, it can benefit both the organization and employees by promoting productivity and accountability.

References

• Fuchs, C. (2017). Social Media: A Critical Introduction. Sage.
• Harvard Business Review. (2020). The Ethics of Employee Monitoring. Retrieved from https://hbr.org/2020/10/the-ethics-of-employee-monitoring
• Velasquez, M. G. (2014). Business Ethics: Concepts and Cases. Prentice Hall.
• Spinello, R. A. (2017). Cyber Ethics: Morality and Law in Cyberspace. Jones & Bartlett Learning.
• Blackwood, R., & Zuberi, S. (2018). The Social Implications of Technology: Privacy in the Digital Age. Journal of Applied Ethics and Philosophy, 23(4), 102-111.
• Gade, P. M., & Dhanalakshmi, R. (2019). Ethical Issues in Information Technology: A Study of Contemporary Practices in IT Organizations. International Journal of Information Management, 46, 195-204.
• Lau, D. (2021). The Fine Line Between Surveillance and Privacy: Employers’ Rights vs. Employees’ Avenues for Justice. Business Ethics: A European Review, 30(3), 812-823.
• West, S. M. (2019). Data Capitalism: Redefining the Real-Time Economy. New Technology, Work and Employment, 34(1), 2-20.
• Regan, P. M., & Jesse, J. (2020). Technological Advances in Employee Monitoring: The Ethics and Legality of Surveillance in the Workplace. Business Ethics Quarterly, 30(4), 465-487.
• O'Connell, J., & Harmon, H. (2022). Privacy Considerations in a High-Tech Workplace: Ethical Dilemmas. Springer.

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