Ethics Essay Questions

1. What are some of the unique problems with preservation of privacy arising from extensive advances in technology and the Internet? It might be helpful to take note of the “Is E-mail Private” case. What does the text contend is likely the best solution to these new difficulties?

The biggest problem associated with advances in technology and the Internet is privacy. Some people find that the invasion of privacy by information collection is violating our rights. Another serious concern is fraud or identity theft. Also, companies sharing information has been a more recent problem since technology advances have been made. The text contends that there should be principles (privacy policies) set in place to protect privacy. The FTC lists five principles that should be followed:

Notice/awareness: Disclose the identity of the collecting party, the information collected, the means for collecting, and the uses to which the information will be put.

Choice/consent: Provide a mechanism for choosing whether to allow information to be collected.

Access/participation: Allow consumers access to the information collected about them and the opportunity to contest the accuracy or completeness of the data.

Integrity/security: Inform users of the steps taken to protect against the alteration, misappropriation, or destruction of data and of the action that will be taken in the event of a breach of security.

Enforcement/Redress: Assure consumers that the company follows responsible information practices and that there are consequences for failing to do so.

2. Describe the difference between the concepts of disparate treatment and disparate impact. How might these concepts be used to analyze the “Alaskan Salmon Cannery” case?

Disparate treatment is discrimination of the first kind. This type of discrimination involves express intention. In other words, employees are discriminated against as individuals with intent from the employer. They are not discriminated...