It Is Important To First Establish Your Own Ethical Code

It Is Important To First Establish Your Own Ethical Code What Do Y

Analysis of Ethical Beliefs Related to Technology Use and Differentiation from Legal Issues

Establishing a personal ethical code regarding the use of technology is a foundational step for responsible engagement in the digital age. Ethical beliefs about technology influence how individuals and organizations navigate complex issues such as intellectual property, privacy, data security, and responsible innovation. Unlike legal issues, which are governed by laws and regulations, ethical considerations are guided by moral principles, societal norms, and professional standards. This distinction underscores the importance of developing an internalized ethical framework to complement legal compliance, fostering trust, integrity, and social responsibility.

My personal ethical stance on technology revolves around promoting respect for intellectual property, safeguarding user privacy, advocating transparency, and ensuring equitable access. I believe that digital content, from videos to software, should be used responsibly, respecting the rights of creators and stakeholders. For instance, downloading and using YouTube or Vimeo videos for commercial purposes without permission constitutes unethical behavior because it disregards copyright laws and the rights of content creators. Even if such acts are not explicitly illegal in some jurisdictions, they violate the moral obligation to respect intellectual contributions and avoid plagiarism.

On the other hand, legal issues are defined by statutes, regulations, and contractual agreements. For example, copyright laws explicitly protect original works, but they may differ across countries, leading to complex compliance requirements. An ethical approach prompts individuals to consider the broader implications beyond legality, such as the impact on creators’ livelihoods and the moral rights associated with their work. This perspective encourages proactive measures like seeking permission, licensing content, or creating original material, thereby aligning ethical principles with legal standards.

Additionally, ethical use of technology encompasses ensuring data security and respecting user privacy. Monitoring employee emails, for instance, raises ethical questions about surveillance and trust. While legal frameworks may permit monitoring for security reasons, ethically, it is essential to balance organizational needs with respecting individual privacy and promoting transparency. Leaders should communicate monitoring policies clearly, justify their necessity, and ensure proportionate measures are in place to prevent misuse.

In the case of a software developer designing a market-impacting product on personal time within company premises, ethical considerations include intellectual property rights and conflicts of interest. Use of company hardware signifies a potential breach of corporate policies if the developer attempts to claim sole ownership or commercialize the software without approval. Ethically, individuals should disclose such projects to their employer, adhere to contractual terms, and respect the company’s rights to innovations developed using its resources. It fosters a culture of trust and mutual respect.

Concerning employees taking photographs of patients in a medical setting and uploading them to social media, ethical issues primarily concern patient confidentiality, informed consent, and the potential breach of privacy. Healthcare professionals must adhere to strict privacy regulations such as HIPAA in the US or GDPR in Europe, which prohibit unauthorized disclosure of personal health information. Ethically, medical staff should obtain explicit consent before capturing or sharing images and uphold confidentiality to maintain trust and respect for patients’ rights.

When working with international companies, understanding cultural differences and varying ethical norms is crucial. For example, attitudes towards intellectual property, data privacy, and employee surveillance differ significantly across Asia. Countries like Japan and South Korea emphasize respect for intellectual property rights and corporate confidentiality, while some emerging markets may have less stringent enforcement. Therefore, ethical standards should be adapted contextually, balancing respect for local norms with adherence to universal principles such as honesty, integrity, and respect for human rights.

Research indicates that operating in Asia offers both opportunities and risks. On one hand, Asia’s rapid economic growth, large consumer markets, and manufacturing capabilities create significant competitive advantages. On the other hand, issues such as intellectual property theft, inconsistent enforcement of laws, and cultural differences can threaten sensitive information and strategic positioning (Liu & Li, 2018). Companies must develop comprehensive risk management strategies, including robust IP protections, due diligence, and fostering local partnerships grounded in trust and mutual respect.

For example, a company planning to establish manufacturing sites in Asia should consider implementing strict confidentiality agreements, engaging local legal expertise, and investing in factory security systems. Building strong relationships with local authorities and respecting cultural practices can also mitigate risks arising from intellectual property infringement or legal uncertainties. These measures align with ethical practices by respecting local norms while safeguarding corporate assets.

Conversely, challenges such as loss of trade secrets can also foster innovation if managed properly through ethical business conduct and transparent policies. Ethical considerations encourage companies to view IP protection not merely as legal compliance but as a moral obligation to uphold fairness and respect for creators' rights, thus fostering sustainable long-term growth in global markets (Chen, 2019).

References

• Chen, L. (2019). Intellectual property law and ethical business practices in Asia. Journal of International Business Ethics, 12(3), 45-58.
• Liu, H., & Li, S. (2018). Challenges and opportunities of global expansion in Asian markets. International Journal of Business Strategy, 20(4), 112-124.
• Kapferer, J.-N. (2012). The New Strategic Brand Management: Advanced Insights and Strategic Thinking. Kogan Page.
• Moore, G. (2016). Ethics and Information Technology. Pearson.
• Schneier, B. (2015). Data and Goliath: The Hidden Battles to Collect Your Data and Control Your World. W.W. Norton & Company.
• Spinello, R. A. (2014). Cyberethics: Morality and Law in Cyberspace. Jones & Bartlett Learning.
• Valcke, P., & Schepers, L. (2020). Privacy and Data Protection in International Business. Routledge.
• Williams, M. L. (2013). Ethical Issues in Information Technology. Pearson.
• Wright, D., & Kreiss, D. (2010). The Ethics of Digital Surveillance. Palgrave Macmillan.
• Zhang, Q., & Wang, X. (2017). Cultural Considerations in International Business Ethics. Journal of Global Ethics, 13(2), 157-173.