10 Commandments of Computer Ethics

Last week in class, we covered Digital Citizenship, which is basically an extension of Computer Ethics.

First, let’s define what technology ethics are: Computer ethics deals with the procedures, values, and practices that govern the process of consuming computing technology and its related disciplines without damaging or violating the moral values and beliefs of any individual, organization or entity. (Source: Techopedia).

Here are the Ten Commandments of Computer Ethics created by the Computer Ethics Institute:

1. Thou shalt not use a computer to harm other people.
2. Thou shalt not interfere with other people’s computer work.
3. Thou shalt not snoop around in other people’s computer files.
4. Thou shalt not use a computer to steal.
5. Thou shalt not use a computer to bear false witness.
6. Thou shalt not copy or use proprietary software for which you have not paid (without permission).
7. Thou shalt not use other people’s computer resources without authorization or proper compensation.
8. Thou shalt not appropriate other people’s intellectual output.
9. Thou shalt think about the social consequences of the program you are writing or the system you are designing.
10. Thou shalt always use a computer in ways that ensure consideration and respect for other humans.

Some issues that arise from computer ethics: computer crimes, lack of face-to-face communication, software piracy, intellectual property, copyright protection, computer fraud, hacking, identity theft, cybersecurity, cyberbullying, and internet privacy.

By understanding computer ethics we, as teachers, instill positive moral responsibilities and proper codes of conduct, so that college students hopefully carry over into the workplace.

Watch 10 Commandments Of Computer Ethics Video