ICT Ethical Issues, Globalization and Knowledge Society

ICT Ethical Issues, Globalization and Knowledge Society

Maslin Masrom (UTM International Campus, Malaysia) and Zuraini Ismail (UTM International Campus, Malaysia)
Copyright: © 2012 |Pages: 11
DOI: 10.4018/978-1-61350-332-4.ch006
OnDemand PDF Download:
Available
$37.50
Current Special Offers
No Current Special Offers
TOTAL SAVINGS: $37.50

Abstract

In this chapter, the authors will parse the current ethical issues in the information and communication technology research associated with the economic phenomenon of globalization. These issues will include: the digital divide between developed and developing countries, poverty, piracy, cybercrimes, human rights, and gender equality. The chapter will go on to discuss themes in the development of the “knowledge society” that are germane to the ethics of globalization such as societal transformation and wealth generation. The chapter will develop a framework that will associate ICT ethical issues with knowledge society. Finally, the authors will present conclusions and details some of the findings discussed in the previous sections. A glimpse of the future will be provided.
Chapter Preview
Top

Ict Ethical Issues

The fast development of ICT globally has led the growth of new ethical issues such as the digital divide, poverty, piracy, cybercrimes, human rights, and gender equality, all of which have affected people’s lives, culture, and values either directly or indirectly. These issues are discussed below.

Digital Divide

The digital divide refers to the gap between those who can effectively benefit from information and computing technologies (ICTs) and those who cannot. Ryder (2006) states that the digital divide raises ethical questions of universal access, that is, access to imperative information has moral and ethical implications that merit consideration in the formation of public policy. On the other hand, ICT has the potential of improving the living conditions of disadvantages or rural groups by helping them increase their income.

Complete Chapter List

Search this Book:
Reset