Topic 8 - Consequences of the Uses of Computing

Question 1

What are Moral (individual) Issues

Answer 1

Issues concerning an individuals sense of right and wrong. E.G. data privacy violations, algorithmic bias, spread of misinformation

Whilst moral issues are not illegal, they are frowned upon by most

Question 2

What are Ethical (social) Issues

Answer 2

Issues concerning society’s sense of right and wrong. They are issues in which society can agree that something is the right thing to do or the wrong thing to do.
E.G. misuse of personal data

Not illegal just frowned upon

Question 3

What are Cultural Issues

Answer 3

Issues where different regions have different moral values.
E.G. In UK people aren’t bothered about being in a photo, but in other countries this may be offensive
When creating a new system, computer scientists must consider where this system will be used and how not to offend any regions.

Question 4

What are the 4 Laws that relate to computers

Answer 4

The Computer Misuse Act - illegal to access or modify data without permission (hack)

The Data Protection Act - The right to know what information they have given and the access to that information
- Ensures organisations are using the data lawfully and fairly

The Freedom of Information Act - Public access to information held by public authorities

The Copyright, Designs and Patents Act - Protect intellectual property of creators