Global Information Technologies: Ethics and the Law

Abstract

Below are the principal features of Global Information Technologies: Ethics and the Law: (1) This book employs clear, accessible language to apply ethics, law, and technologies to the most contemporary dilemmas confronting information age professionals. (2) The book introduces five alternative ethical perspectives and applies them, in every chapter, to contemporary and future disputes, created by the rapid advances in information technology. (3) This text provides an in-depth exploration and analysis of how ethical issues impact legal decisions, statutes, and public policy. (4) Many computer ethics books present brief case synopses, but no other computer ethics book demonstrates the correlation between law and ethics in such compelling case studies. (5) This book includes the hottest topics in computer law and ethics: computer security, data protection, electronic monitoring of email and Internet usage, open source contracts, computer viruses, hacking, privacy, Internet security, cybercrimes, cyberbullying, intellectual property law developments, domain names/trademark conflicts, and software patents. (6) We introduce key global legal developments in every chapter such as the rules of cross-border jurisdiction, choice of law, the EU’s 2018 General Data Protection Regulation, Safe Harbor 2.0 enabling data transfers to the U.S., the Unfair Contract Terms Directive, and Moral Rights. (7) Textboxes in every chapter call students’ attention to case studies, documents from official sources, and recent legal developments. Pictures, tables, and charts help make this book accessible. (8) With a unique blend of ethical theories, legal cases, application, and public policy, each chapter underscores why an understanding of legal and ethical principles is critically important for success in the information technology field. Each chapter presents multinational cases that highlight contrasting legal and ethical perspectives across the globe. (9) Students learn that computer science is not purely a technical field, but requires professionals who can grasp and apply moral, legal and social implications to resolve rapidly evolving dilemmas. (10) Classroom-tested study and discussion questions are presented at the end of each chapter. (11) A book website with PowerPoints for each chapter, sample examination questions, and a 350-page glossary of legal and ethical terms used in the book will be provided to aid the instructor and students. Our online instructors’ guide contains a list of useful websites, suggestions for further reading, and resources for effectively using this book.