Technology and Ethics

Can you handle it?

Internet = information = power.

Related to the discussion on privacy and the use of the internet, this TED talk speaks to the need for a reflection on our moral compass surrounding the power that comes with using the internet. Technology today provides us with access to so much information about so many different people, the speaker, Damon Horowitz, asks us what should we do with all of this information?

Use it?

Collect it?

Record it?

Sell it?

or

Respect his privacy?

He polls the audience about cellphones, and then about moral frameworks... and proves that the results mean that we have stronger opinions about the handheld devices we use, than the ethical principles surrounding our information-saturated internet lives. Right and wrong, iPhone or Android. Which question is easier?

You and I both know which one is easier. We also know which one is more important.

I found this speech incredibly eye-opening, as it was something I rarely think about. I feel like those working closely with the internet and various types of information need to view this video, and start thinking critically. If people are not cautious and responsible about their privacy levels online, it means that those of us who have access to their information are now responsible for deciding what we should do with that information.

Do you trust other people? More importantly, strangers? Companies?

Double check your privacy... don't assume that others have proper morals established.