Im Ethical.... Why Do I need a Code of Ethics?

By: Theresa Zajkowski CSE 601

Overview

What is Ethics? Brief History Why is there a need for codes of ethics? Association of Computing Machinery Code of Conduct Software Engineering Code of Ethics Comparison of the two codes Scenarios

What is Ethics?

According to Merriam-Webster, ethics is the discipline focusing on what is good and bad with moral duty and obligation. It is a set of moral principles.

A Brief History

In the early nineteenth century, ethics dealt with a persons character. A persons honor and virtue led them to act ethically. As true professionals there was no need for written instructions on how a person should act or conduct their affairs.

A Brief History (Cont.)

However, in the early to mid-nineteenth century, English doctor Thomas Percival proposed a list of ethical rules. This code gave physicians and surgeons a means of assessing the conduct of their fellow practitioners as well as their superiors, employers and other medical professionals (Canadian Appraiser).

Why Do We Need A Code of Ethics?

As members of a profession, we are seen as trusted experts by society. As professionals, we have a duty to maintain the highest standards of professionalism in our work, while at the same time still acting in the public interest.

Why Do We Need A Code of Ethics? (Cont.)

In order for a code of ethics to maintain its merit and respect, it must contain procedures for monitoring a members actions and procedures for disciplining those who fail to act in accordance with these standards.

Association of Computing Machinery Code of Conduct

The ACM Code of Conduct contains 24 imperatives discussing the personal responsibility of each person.

Outlines fundamental ethical considerations Addresses additional, considerations of professional conduct Discusses the duties specific to individuals who have a leadership role Focuses on the principles concerning compliance with the code

Association of Computing Machinery Code of Conduct (Cont.)

The first 8 imperatives found in Section 1

Contribute to society and human well-being Avoid harm to others Be honest and trustworthy Be fair and take action not to discriminate

Association of Computing Machinery Code of Conduct (Cont.)

Honor property rights including copyrights and patent Give proper credit for intellectual property Respect the privacy of others Honor confidentiality

Software Engineering Code of Ethics

Recommended by ACM and IEEE-CS The Software Engineers Code of Ethics is divided into 8 principle sections.

Public Client and Employer Product Judgment Management Profession Colleagues Self

Software Engineering Code of Ethics (Cont.)

Each section identifies a different situation or decision a professional engineer would face and the appropriate action(s) the engineer should take. The sections also focus on the relationships between individuals, groups or organizations and the ethical obligations involved with these relationships.

Software Engineering Code of Ethics (Cont.)

The first 8 principles involving the public interest

Accept full responsibility for their own work. Moderate the interests of the software engineer, the employer, the client and the users with the public good. Approve software only if they have a well-founded belief that it is safe, meets specifications, passes appropriate tests, and does not diminish quality of life, diminish privacy or harm the environment. The ultimate effect of the work should be to the public good.

Software Engineering Code of Ethics (Cont.)

Disclose to appropriate persons or authorities any actual or potential danger to the user, the public, or the environment, that they reasonably believe to be associated with software or related documents. Cooperate in efforts to address matters of grave public concern caused by software, its installation, maintenance, support or documentation. Be fair and avoid deception in all statements, particularly public ones, concerning software or related documents, methods and tools.

Software Engineering Code of Ethics (Cont.)

Consider issues of physical disabilities, allocation of resources, economic disadvantage and other factors that can diminish access to the benefits of software. Be encouraged to volunteer professional skills to good causes and contribute to public education concerning the discipline

Comparing the two Codes of Ethics

Similarities

Guide engineers and engineering teams when faced with an ethical decision Describe consequences for unethical decisions Helps teach the public about what can and cannot be asked of an engineer

Possible Scenarios

Medical Supply Company

Malfunctioning pressure valve on infant respirator To cut costs, was asked to not install emergency lighting Using proprietary software to release a product without a license for software

University Construction Team

Software Company

Recap

Ethics History ACM Code of Conduct Software Engineering Code of Ethics Comparison of both codes Scenarios

Any Questions