Assignment Paper

(2pts) How does Virginia Eubanks argue technology systems contribute to a “digital poorhouse”?

(2pts) Do you agree or disagree that governments have a responsibility to ensure technology systems do not cause new, or enhance existing inequities? Why?

(6pts) The ACM Code of Ethics States…
1.4 Be fair and take action not to discriminate.

The values of equality, tolerance, respect for others, and justice govern this principle. Fairness requires that even careful decision processes provide some avenue for redress of grievances.

Computing professionals should foster fair participation of all people, including those of underrepresented groups. Prejudicial discrimination on the basis of age, color, disability, ethnicity, family status, gender identity, labor union membership, military status, nationality, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, or any other inappropriate factor is an explicit violation of the Code. Harassment, including sexual harassment, bullying, and other abuses of power and authority, is a form of discrimination that, amongst other harms, limits fair access to the virtual and physical spaces where such harassment takes place.

The use of information and technology may cause new, or enhance existing, inequities. Technologies and practices should be as inclusive and accessible as possible and computing professionals should take action to avoid creating systems or technologies that disenfranchise or oppress people. Failure to design for inclusiveness and accessibility may constitute unfair discrimination.

Using evidence from interview and/or reading material (or other resources) write an argument agreeing or disagreeing with the following normative statement.

[Information and Computer Technology companies should be responsible for ensuring that systems do not cause new, or enhance existing inequities, even at the expense of other values.]

Your argument should include: Claim, Evidence**, Warrant, and Conclusion.
**Evidence should be cited