Computers, Ethics, and Society

By M. David Ermann, Mary B. Williams, Michele S. Shauf

Computers can have both a positive and negative impact on our lives. As they become increasingly important, these machines have the potential to deprive us of our privacy and even the jobs we need to support ourselves. On the other hand, they can enhance the quality of human life by producing unimagined freedom from drudgery and want. Ideal for students in sociology, philosophy, and computer science courses, Computers, Ethics, and Society serves as a reminder that although technology has the potential to improve or undermine our quality of life, it is society which has the power to ultimately decide how computers will affect our lives.
Computers, Ethics, and Society, now in its second edition, provides a stimulating set of interdisciplinary readings specifically designed to understand these issues. The readings examine current computer problems, discussing them at a level that can explain future realities. Topics include the threat to privacy, computer wrong-doing and whistleblowing, and the questions of how to decide when and if a computer-related act is wrongful. In addition, the problems of unemployment and opportunities for international cooperation are considered in light of broader issues of justice and community. New chapters in the second edition deal with specific and timely issues such as the conflict over copyrights on the Internet; the influence and effect of computer technology on women, minorities, and third world societies; and the exploitations of Internet technology by right-wing militia groups and other underground organizations.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 019510756X
• ISBN13: 9780195107562
• Release Date: March 1997
• Publisher: Oxford University Press, USA
• Length: 352 Pages
• Weight: 0.95 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.0" x 5.4" x 8.1"

Customer Reviews

Excellent articles all computer professionals should read.

This book has many of the classic articles about computers and our society. The GNU Manifesto is included. There is an excellent article about whistle-blowing. I read this text many years ago in my Computer Ethics course. I really enjoyed the class and this book.

Information technology in a global society

As a teacher of a course entitled "Information technology in a global society" i have found this book an excellent resource for both myself and my students alike. It's simple enough for an entry level reader (I have had kids as young as 11 discussing the ethical considerations presented in the book). While on the other hand it contains enough specifics and case studies to make it a suitable source for high school students preparing papers on a variety of topical issues.What I love is that you can pick up the book and find the relavant information your looking for without having to read the whole book.