Social Issues and Professional Practices

- The course covers social and professional responsibility.

- Introduces the important considerations relating to ethical and professional issues.
- It introduces students to ethical issues such as property rights, freedom of expression, privacy, and
professional Codes of Conduct.
- It also equips students with tools for critical reasoning in order to construct and analyze the Ethical
issues and problems in the business and corporate world.
- It aims to provide understanding of social and professional issues in modern society.
- It also discusses the different law and ethics that governs the IT industry.

Introduction to Computer Ethics and Computer Ethics Fallacies.

Computer Ethics
- is a field that explores the ethical implications of information technology.
- a set of moral guidelines that govern how we use computers and digital resources.

Here are some key aspects of computer ethics:

1. Responsible Use of Technology: This involves using computers and digital tools for good, avoiding
actions that could cause harm to others or society.

2. Privacy and Security: Computer ethics emphasizes the importance of protecting personal information and
data security.

3. Intellectual Property: Following copyright laws and respecting the ownership of digital creations is a core
principle.

4. Accessibility: Considering how technology can be inclusive and accessible for everyone is part of computer
ethics.

5. Accountability: We are responsible for the consequences of our actions online, even if they're
unintentional.

Computer ethics applies to both Individuals and Organizations.

For Individuals: Using strong passwords, avoiding plagiarism, and not spreading misinformation are all
examples of ethical computer use.
For Organizations: Data protection policies, responsible use of social media, and fair treatment of online
workers are all aspects of computer ethics in businesses.

By understanding computer ethics, we can become more responsible digital citizens and contribute to a
positive online environment.

Ten Commandments of Computer Ethics

originally developed by the Computer Professionals for Social Responsibility (CPSR):

1.Thou shalt not use a computer to harm other people.

- avoiding actions that could damage someone's data, reputation, or well-being through hacking, spreading
viruses, or cyberbullying.

2.Thou shalt not interfere with other people's computer work.

- This includes disrupting their work with viruses, overloading systems, or snooping in their files.

3.Thou shalt not snoop around in other people's computer files.

- Respecting privacy is crucial, and accessing unauthorized data is unethical.

4.Thou shalt not use a computer to steal.

- This applies to both digital information (like software) and physical property obtained through hacking or
online scams.

5.Thou shalt not use a computer to bear false witness.

- Spreading misinformation or creating fake online identities is a violation of this principle.

6.Thou shalt not copy or use proprietary software for which you have not paid.
- Respecting intellectual property rights is essential, so avoid using unlicensed software.

7.Thou shalt not use other people's computer resources without authorization or proper
compensation.
- This means using resources responsibly and avoiding unauthorized access to computing power or storage.

8.Thou shalt not appropriate other people's intellectual output.

- Plagiarism applies in the digital world as well, so give credit to the creators of ideas and content.

9.Thou shalt think about the social consequences of the program you are writing or the system
you are designing.
- Consider how technology can impact society and design with responsible use in mind.

10.Thou shalt always use a computer in ways that ensure consideration and respect for your fellow
humans.
- Treat others online with the same respect you would in person.

Computer Ethics Fallacies

- a flawed way of thinking that leads to unethical behavior in the digital world.
- These fallacies often involve misconceptions about the nature of the online world or the consequences
of our actions.
- Understanding these fallacies can help us make better choices online.

Computer Ethics Fallacies

1. The "It's not mine" fallacy:
This fallacy assumes that information or data readily available online is free for the taking.
Just because something is digital doesn't mean it's not protected by copyright or intellectual property laws.

2. The "Everyone's doing it" fallacy:

Popularity doesn't equal ethical behavior. Sharing copyrighted content, for example, becomes unethical even if
many people do it.

3. The "Harm is invisible" fallacy:

Ethics aren't just about immediate, physical consequences. Spreading misinformation online can have a ripple
effect, causing real-world harm even if it's not readily apparent.

4. The "Privacy is dead" fallacy:

While online privacy is a challenge, it's not impossible. We have a responsibility to be mindful of the
information we share and how we share it.

5. The "Security through obscurity" fallacy:

Thinking that simply hiding something online (like a password) makes it secure is a mistake. Strong
passwords, encryption, and keeping software updated are essential for real security.

6. The "Technology is neutral" fallacy:

- Technology itself isn't inherently good or bad, but it can be used for both. We need to consider the potential
impact of a technology before deploying it and strive to use it responsibly.

7. The "Law-abiding citizen" fallacy:

- Just because something is legal online doesn't mean it's ethical. Laws might not cover all situations, and
ethical considerations go beyond legal boundaries.

8. The "Shatterproof fallacy":

- This fallacy assumes actions in the digital world have no lasting consequences. Digital footprints can
resurface, information can be breached, and online behavior can damage reputations.

9. The "Grand Theft Auto fallacy" (video game specific):

- This fallacy links violent video games to real-world violence. Correlation doesn't imply causation. Many
gamers enjoy such games without any connection to violence.

10. The "Simulation fallacy" (game design specific):

- This fallacy occurs when game designers prioritize mimicking real-world mechanics over embracing the
unique strengths of video games as a storytelling and interactive medium.

Computer Ethics Fallacies

- By understanding these fallacies, we can make more informed decisions in the digital world and
navigate the ethical complexities of the online landscape.

Ethics
- examines the rational justification for our moral judgments
Professional
- the skill, good judgment, and polite behavior that is expected from a person who is trained to do a job
well
Personal
- of or concerning one's private life, relationships, and emotions rather than matters connected with one's
public or professional career.
Introduction to Professional and Personal Ethics.

What is ethics?
Ethics can be understood in two ways:
1. Moral Philosophy: As a field of study, ethics is a branch of philosophy concerned with what constitutes
morally right and wrong behavior.

2. Moral Principles: Ethics can also refer to a setting of moral principles that guide our behavior.

Personal Ethics
- are your internal compass, guiding you through life's decisions.
- the fundamental principles that shape your character and influence how you interact with the world.
Unlike professional ethics, which are specific to a particular job, personal ethics are your own unique
set of moral beliefs.

Here's a breakdown to understand personal ethics better:

Core Values:
- These are the bedrock of your ethics. They represent what you consider most important, such as honesty,
fairness, compassion, or responsibility.
Moral Compass:
- Your core values shape your moral compass, the internal guide that helps you navigate right from wrong in
various situations.
Decision-Making:
- When faced with a dilemma, your personal ethics framework helps you choose the course of action that
aligns with your values.

Why are Personal Ethics Important?

Live with Integrity:
- Personal ethics ensure you live a life true to yourself, acting consistently with what you believe in.
Stronger Relationships:
- Ethical behavior fosters trust and respect in your relationships with others.
Positive Impact:
- Making ethical choices can contribute to a more just and compassionate world.

NOTE:
Personal ethics are not static. As you grow and learn, your values may evolve. The key is to be continually
engaged in self-reflection and refinement of your moral compass.

Professional Ethics
- are the moral principles that guide a person's behavior in a particular profession.
- outline the expected behavior of professionals and influence decision-making at work.
Professional ethics are important for several reasons. They help to:
 - Build trust between professionals and the public.
- Protect the rights of clients and customers.
- Ensure that professionals are competent and qualified.
- Promote a fair and equitable workplace.
- Uphold the reputation of the profession.
NOTE:
Many professions have their own code of ethics, which is a formal document that outlines the ethical principles
that members of the profession are expected to follow. These oh no nocodes of ethics are typically developed
by professional organizations and may be enforced through disciplinary action.

Here are some of the core principles of professional ethics:

1. Honesty:
- Professionals should be truthful in their dealings with clients, colleagues, and the public.
2. Integrity:
- Professionals should act with integrity and avoid conflicts of interest.
3. Competence:
- Professionals should have the necessary skills to perform their duties effectively.
4. Confidentiality:
- Professionals should keep client information confidential.
5. Fairness:
- Professionals should treat clients and colleagues fairly.
6. Respect:
- Professionals should treat clients and colleagues with respect.
NOTE:
Professional ethics are an important part of being a professional
By following the ethical principles of their profession, professionals can help to ensure that they are providing
high-quality services and maintaining the public's trust in their profession.

INTRODUCTION TO LEGAL SYSTEMS AND LEGAL ISSUES IN

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
LEGAL SYSTEMS
- are the framework of rules, procedures, and institutions that a community uses to interpret and enforce their
laws.
- no uniform legal system across the globe, and each jurisdiction (countries, states) uses its own legal system.
The type of legal system a jurisdiction uses will have a significant impact on how the law is applied.
There are four main types of legal systems:
Civil law
-systems are based on codified law
- the law is written down in comprehensive codes.
- Judges in civil law systems are primarily responsible for interpreting the law, and they do not have the same
power to create new law as judges in common law systems.
- Civil law systems are found in many countries around the world, including France, Germany, and China.
Civil law
● Contract
● Family Law
● Family Disputes
 ● Property Disputes/Law
● Labour Law
● Custody Disputes
Common law
-systems are based on precedent, which means that judges rely on the decisions of past courts in similar
cases to decide new cases.
- are found in many countries around the world, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada.
Religious law
-is law that is derived from religious texts.
- is often used in conjunction with civil law or common law.
For example, Islamic law (Sharia) is a source of law in many Muslim-majority countries.
Customary law
-is law that is based on the customs and traditions of a particular group of people.
- Customary law is often used in tribal societies and in developing countries.