Computer Technologies Create Computers Ethics An
2000 Words (not including bibliography)
INSTRUCTIONS
The midterm exam consists of three questions total: two short and one long-answer questions. You must answer all three questions separately.
The short answers should be no less than 500 words, while the long response should be no less than 1000 words (2000 words minimum for the assignment, but you may go over without penalty). Standard formatting applies; double-spaced, in a regular font. You may use MLA, but please, no cover sheet required. Also, you must include a bibliography or works cited at the end of your midterm exam. Always be sure to cite your sources.
Please include the question at the top of each response.
Be sure to include a word count at the end of each response.
Please answer clearly and completely.
GUIDELINES
In your responses, be sure to refer to the readings for guidance in providing a framework for your thinking. You’re welcome to draw upon research of your own, but you must do so in addition to demonstrating your familiarity with what the required readings have said, and with accuracy about the views expressed there.
As always, define your terms and give examples that illustrate what you think to be true. And, take seriously those who would object to your views.
Short-answer questions (500 words each):
1. What does Winner mean by characterizing technologies as “forms of life”? Explain, defend your answer, and give an example involving computer technologies not used in the text. (attached pdf of Winner)
2. Why does Moor claim that computer technologies create “policy vacuums”? Explain, defend your answer, and give an example involving computer technologies not used in the text. (attached pdf of Moor)
Long-answer question (pick one; 1000 words):
1. Compare and contrast the ethical theories of Rights and Utilitarianism. Do you think that the two theories are compatible with each other? Why or why not? Also, consider that we often use different ethical theories depending on the context of our moral concerns. Give an example involving computer technologies where our concern for Rights is in proportion to our concern for the general welfare of everyone involved.
2. Compare and contrast the ethical theories of Deontology, Virtue Ethics and Care Ethics. Do you think that the three theories are compatible with each other? Why or why not? Also, consider that we often use different ethical theories depending on the context of our moral concerns. Give an example involving computer technologies where our obligation to follow a moral rule or moral law is in conflict with our concern for the virtue of our characters, or with our ability to care for others.
ON FORMATTING
I will accept MLA styles, however do not include a cover sheet. When doing research, you may use sources from any periodical from the internet or other written sources, but DO NOT use Wikipedia as a source. The sources may be from peer-reviewed journals or popular blogs. For example, check the Science and Technology sections from NPR, or The New York Times, etc. Other popular Tech based sites and blogs, such as Ars-Technica or Tech Crunch, are perfectly acceptable. If you have any questions about a specific source, please ask before using it. Please be sure to include a bibliography or works cited for all relevant information.