Ethics and Access to Technology for Persons with Disabilities

Abstract

The growth in technology has provided unprecedented access to information and experiences for persons all over the world. An Internet search yields volumes of information, personal digital assistants (PDAs) connect people with friends and information worldwide, and prosthetic devices provide both cosmetic effects and mobility for persons with a wide variety of orthopedic impairments. Although the current level of access to technology is a recent phenomenon, most people take these conveniences for granted. However, technology may be a mixed blessing for persons with disabilities and pose ethical dilemmas for developers who wish to provide global access for all.