Reflective Writing Assignment

Aaron Jones

PHIL 355E

8/2/2024

            Going into this course I was unsure of what I would encounter and a newcomer of the field of information technology. Throughout this course the ethical consideration surrounding the digital landscape and unique perspective on the responsibilities that come with being a cyber professional. The transition from the disciplined, duty-bound military to the creative, often unexplored world of technology required a significant change in viewpoint. This course has given me an essential opportunity to investigate the ethical aspects of technology, challenging me to think critically about the impact of technology on society and the duties of people who create and manage it.

            Initially, my idea of whistleblowing was molded by a strong feeling of loyalty and duty, which are crucial in the military. I was skeptical of whistleblowing because I was concerned that it would harm cohesion and operational security. However, after examining the case of Chelsea Manning through the perspective of virtue ethics and Vandekerckhove’s paradigm, I began to understand the moral complexity involved. This understanding has taught me that adhering to ethical ideals sometimes necessitates confronting power to uphold the greater good. Whistleblowing is an important technique for ensuring ethical standards and accountability. It is critical to strike a balance between devotion to one’s organization and greater loyalty to ethical values, ensuring that fairness and honesty are respected.

            As a novice to technology, I initially viewed software development as primarily technical, with ethical considerations taking a back place. However, Bill Sourour’s ethical quandary in creating a false pharmaceutical quiz had a significant impact on my understanding of the obligations that come with programming. Using the ACM Code of Ethics and Armstrong’s professional ethics framework, I recognized that engineers must put users’ well-being and trust before financial rewards or company expectations. Sourour’s experience demonstrated the threats of unethical programming and the long-term implications it can have on people’s lives. This case emphasized the need of honesty, justice, and a commitment to do no damage. Ethical programming is crucial. As an student, I must ensure that my work serves society, does not cause harm, and maintains consumers trust. Maintaining ethical standards is critical to protecting the integrity of the profession.

            Data privacy appeared to me to be a technological issue best handled by compliance departments. However, after investigating the ethical underpinnings of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) via the lenses of Zimmer and Buchanan, I came to regard data privacy as a fundamental human right that necessitates strong safeguards. The GDPR’s emphasis on transparency, accountability, and informed consent is consistent with deontological ethics, which emphasizes the value of respecting individual autonomy. Understanding these concepts has helped me realize how important data privacy is in sustaining public trust and protecting personal freedoms in the digital era. Data privacy is a fundamental ethical obligation. IT workers must fight for and execute strong data privacy policies in order to respect individual rights and maintain public trust. Ethical data processing is not only a legal need, but also a moral one that protects human dignity.

            This course had a significant impact on my understanding of technology ethics. The conversations about whistleblowing, ethical programming, and data protection have given me a greater awareness for the moral aspects of my future work. Moving forward, I am determined to incorporate these ethical lessons into my career. Whether addressing issues of transparency, campaigning for user trust, or protecting data privacy, I will aim to uphold the ethical imperatives that this course has highlighted.