Exchanging or Thieving-A Foundational View of Software Ethics

Abstract

Hamid A. Rafizadeh

This article addresses the pressing issue of software thieving by using a software-update case study to examine the underlying ethical challenges in software production and usage. A proposed foundational framework highlights four critical factors: 1) the application of force, 2) the taking of resources, 3) knowledge processing, and 4) direction setting. This approach enables a comprehensive global analysis of the ethical dimensions in software development and use, contrasting voluntary exchanges with those compelled by thieving. Focusing on a case study of a large manufacturer, these foundational factors are applied to both individual and organizational behavior. The core challenge identified is the temptation for individuals and organizations to exploit the ease of force-driven resource acquisition rather than adhering to foundational ethical guidelines. Traditional reliance on published codes of ethics for moral reassurance is found to be inadequate, particularly within complex organizational structures where key decisions are pre-determined before employees are tasked with their execution. The foundational approach reveals the susceptibility of organizations to distorted and high-ignorance-content interpretations of law and ethics. This article outlines potential solutions to enhance ethical adherence, emphasizing the need for robust ethical guidelines that permeate all levels of decision-making within organizations.

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