1.)Definition #1 "Ethics is derived from the Greek term "ethos", which means character or custom
Example: Another case would be the selling of one's "wares" through the internet. Some countries promote this but here in our country we call it prostitution and is considered by some to be immoral and unlawful.
Definition #2 "Ethics is the study of the morality of human actions"
Example: When person "A" through his/her own action uses computer technology to hijack the identity of person "B" thus enabling person "A" to make online transactions as person "B" is considered unethical by some groups.
Definition #3 "Ethics focuses on the care of the soul"
Example: Some offices with internet connectivity have policies that permit blocking of certain sites which are considered immoral.
2.) Applied ethics: "NURSING ETHICS"
Generally, the code of ethics in the field of nursing focuses on proper care given to patients, respect of patients rights and protection of the interest of the profession.
3.)Rona is liable for copying Jojo's software and reproducing same. I consider this act to be unethical on the following grounds:
This is a form of stealing which is considered wrong "human conduct".
If Rona will not be sanctioned, others will follow suit to take advantage of people and many more victims will be oppressed.
It has been said "The end justifies the means". What was Rona's motive when the act was committed? Was it for the "greatest good" of everyone or just personal gain?
4.)In my humble opinion, one's action becomes ethical if it is selfless and considered as beneficial to most if not all. There are people who create and maintain websites with multitudes of free software, tutorials, online services, etc. I consider unethical those that infringes the rights of other people, like using computers to steal financial accounts of others, making viruses, trojans.
Answers to SAQ 2-1
1.) Just like all the other aspects of life, to avoid chaos and anarchy in the use of computers and information, people need directions, guidance when handling information technology.
2.) The two laws I have in mind are: Laws against "piracy" and "hacking". Piracy is based on the natural law which emphasizes "equity" among computer users. Hacking deals more on moral law aspects where rights of people, like privacy are being protected.
Answers to SAQ 4-1
1.) Categorical imperatives appeal to me the most. Everyone has a duty to perform. To make computing free of its abuses, we have to do what is right because it is right.
2.) I think utilitarianism govern the world of computing. Viruses, spamming, piracy etc. are prevalent and continue to thrive because there are people who get something back from these detestable entities. Virus makers may have some grudge against a computer corporation that it will put a smile on their face just to see its products crash because of some malicious code they created. There are those that spread malware, adware because they finance from this, at it gives them pleasure.