Learning Objectives
By the end of this chapter, you will be able to:
- Define professionalism, ethics, and morality.
- Understand the importance of ethical behavior for IT professionals.
- Explain the purpose of a professional code of ethics.
Professionalism, Ethics, and Morality
As an IT professional, you will have access to sensitive information and powerful tools. It is therefore critical to have a strong understanding of professionalism and ethics.
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Morality: Refers to an individual’s own personal principles regarding right and wrong.
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Ethics: Refers to the rules of conduct recognized in respect to a particular class of human actions or a particular group or culture. In this context, it refers to the standards of right and wrong that guide the behavior of IT professionals.
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Professionalism: The competence or skill expected of a professional. This includes not only technical competence but also a commitment to ethical behavior.
A Professional Code of Ethics
Many professional organizations, such as the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM), have established a code of ethics that their members are expected to follow. These codes provide a set of principles and guidelines for ethical decision-making in the profession.
Summary
For IT professionals, technical skill is not enough. It must be paired with a commitment to professionalism and ethical conduct. While morality is personal, ethics provides a shared set of principles for a profession. Professional codes of ethics help to guide IT professionals in making responsible and ethical decisions in their work.
Key Takeaways
- Morality is personal; ethics are professional standards.
- Professionalism includes both technical competence and ethical behavior.
- Professional codes of ethics provide guidance for ethical decision-making.
Discussion Questions
- Why is a code of ethics particularly important for IT professionals?
- Can an action be legal but unethical? Provide an example.
- Look up the ACM Code of Ethics. What is one of its core principles?
