The Ten Commandments of Computer Ethics

The Ten Commandments of Computer Ethics

The 1st Commandment
Thou shalt not use a computer to harm other people.
In the age of information and/or the digital age, more and more personal information is available online.  From financial to personal, information online is the property of the individual and entities that they share it with and no others.

The 2nd Commandment
Thou shalt not interfere with other people's computer work.
With greater and higher speed access the user is to benefit and incorporate these advances in technology for the betterment of their work and for the collaboration with others.

The 3rd Commandment
Thou shalt not snoop around in other people's computer files.
Again with the increase in speed and access it is left to the user to continue their use in an ethical manner.

The 4th Commandment
Thou shalt not use a computer to steal.
With other commandments and with the advancement of technologies it is to the user to utilize equipment in a manner in which benefits the Web 2.0 community.

The 5th Commandment
Thou shalt not use a computer to bear false witness.
Computers, cell phones, chat rooms, instant messenging, blogs, wikis…. Daily there are multiple means and options to post information for the global community to see.  It is the responsibility of the user to utilize these powerful tools to benefit this global community.

The 6th Commandment
Thou shalt not copy or use proprietary software for which you have not paid.
For those looking for “free” software and applications, Web 2.0 applications provide users with “free” and “open” applications which users can utilize in an ethical manner and at no cost.

The 7th Commandment
Thou shalt not use other people's computer resources without authorization or proper compensation.
With the drop of costs and the increase in capabilities computer access in more common than ever.  Even with an atmosphere of openness users must remember to simply ask permission when using equipment.

The 8th Commandment
Thou shalt not appropriate other people's intellectual output.
The Creative Commons community allows users and creators of information quick and easy use in identifying the usability of their work.

The 9th Commandment
Thou shalt think about the social consequences of the program you are writing or the system you are designing.
As users and programmers collaborate from around the world it is with the intentions of betterment of the world that they continue their work.

The 10th Commandment
Thou shalt always use a computer in ways that ensure consideration and respect for your fellow humans.
Computers are powerful tools that can and will be used to share knowledge with the global community.  It is left to the user to consider their purpose.