Mapping Ordinary Morals onto the Computer Society: A Philosophical Perspective

It is argued that philosophical, ethical analysis is needed when the moral rules relevant to a situation are not obvious, or when several moral principles come into conflict, around rules regarding property, privacy, and power.

Abstract

The use of computers changes the way that individuals relate to one another and to organizations, and it may appear to change rights and responsibilities in these relationships. There is a sharp distinction between the empirical questions and the normative questions that might be raised about the use of computers. It is argued that philosophical, ethical analysis is needed when the moral rules relevant to a situation are not obvious, or when several moral principles come into conflict. Three such areas center around rules regarding property, privacy, and power. Issues surrounding rights of ownership of computer programs are explored; the effects of increasing use of computers on personal privacy and organizational power are examined; and effects on the distribution of power are considered.