Related Experiment Videos
Rethinking technology, revitalizing ethics: overcoming barriers to ethical design
1Department of Science and Technology Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY 12180, USA.
Science and Engineering Ethics
|March 29, 2001
Summary
This paper argues that ethics should be integrated into technology design. By examining Science and Technology Studies (STS), it shows how human values shape technology, advocating for early ethical considerations.
Area of Science:
- Design Studies
- Science and Technology Studies (STS)
- Ethics in Technology
Background:
- Traditionally, ethical considerations are marginalized in technology design.
- The perception of technology as uncontrollable hinders the integration of ethics.
- Recent Science and Technology Studies (STS) challenge this view.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the role of ethics in the design of technology.
- To challenge the notion that technology is beyond ethical control.
- To advocate for the inclusion of ethical considerations throughout the design process.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of Science and Technology Studies (STS).
- Analysis of the dynamics of technological change.
- Case examples from the privacy domain.
Main Results:
- Human choices and values are integral to technological development and artifact design.
- Ethical design is feasible and beneficial.
- Early integration of ethics offers potential advantages.
Conclusions:
- Ethics can and should be incorporated into the design process.
- Addressing ethical concerns early in technology development is advantageous.
- Strategies for reintegrating ethics into design are proposed.