Ethical Ramifications Research Articles

Explainable AI for Transparent and Trustworthy Tuberculosis Diagnosis: From Mere Pixels to Actionable Insights

Building transparent and trustworthy AI-powered systems for disease diagnosis has become more paramount than ever due to a lack of understanding of black box models. A lack of transparency and explainability in AI-driven models can propagate biases and erode patients' and medical practitioners' trust. To answer this challenge, Explainable AI (XAI) is drastically emerging as a practical solution and approach to tackling ethical concerns in the health sector. The overarching purpose of this paper is to highlight the advancement in XAI for tuberculosis diagnosis (TB) and identify the benefits and challenges associated with improved trust in AI-powered TB diagnosis. We explore the potential of XAI in improving TB diagnosis. We attempt to provide a complete plan to promote XAI. We examine the significant problems associated with using XAI in TB diagnosis. We argue that XAI is critical for reliable TB diagnosis by improving the interpretability of AI decision-making processes and recognising possible biases and mistakes. We evaluate techniques and methods for XAI in TB diagnosis and examine the ethical and societal ramifications. By leveraging explainable AI, we can create a more reliable and trustworthy TB diagnostic framework, ultimately improving patient outcomes and global health. Finally, we provide thorough recommendations for developing and implementing XAI in TB diagnosis using X-ray imaging

Ethical Ramifications of the Dark Side of Business Practices in the International Business Area

ABSTRACTThe dark side of international business practices has attracted significant research attention recently. However, researchers are struggling to delve into the ethical ramifications of these practices because of a limited understanding of ethical and digital transformation issues in international business, which may be caused, inter alia, by sociocultural and market disparities, lack of regulatory frameworks, information asymmetries, data ubiquity, and power imbalance among key stakeholders. This paper addresses this important gap through four key themes—ethical considerations, data processing issues, legal considerations, and managerial contingencies. We discuss how to step forward in research on ethics in international business, assessing potential risks associated with privacy concerns, big data, cybersecurity, content analysis, stakeholder relationships, and discriminatory outcomes. Finally, we propose a research agenda and recommendations to address the ethical challenges and dilemmas international businesses face due to disruptive technologies (e.g., artificial intelligence) and cross‐market challenges (e.g., legal jurisdictions).

Ethical Implications of Cybersecurity Breaches and Data Privacy Violations

The increasing reliance on digital technology has led to a surge in cybersecurity breaches and data privacy violations. These incidents raise significant ethical concerns, impacting individuals, organizations, and society as a whole. This paper explores the ethical ramifications of such breaches, focusing on issues like privacy intrusion, potential harm to individuals, and the erosion of trust. It further examines the ethical obligations of organizations in data collection, storage, and security practices. Finally, the paper discusses potential solutions and approaches to mitigate these ethical concerns and promote a more responsible digital ecosystem Keywords:Cybersecurity, Data Privacy, Ethical Implications, Privacy Intrusion, Trust, Data Security

Staying Out of Trouble: FDA Regulation of Orthobiologics and the Shoulder Surgeon

Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulation of Orthobiologics can be challenging to interpret for the non-regulatory scientist. However, understanding how regulations apply to clinical use of these orthobiologic products is critical, as there are both ethical and legal ramifications to using orthobiologics in conflict with regulations. Recent FDA guidances have attempted to clarify these issues, although questions still remain regarding nuances in regulatory applications. FDA guidances, industry blogs, and relevant publications were searched for citations regarding recent orthobiologics and regulations. These sources were compiled into a current assessment of FDA regulations regarding the use of orthobiologics in the shoulder. Key to understanding these regulations is the FDA differentiation of human cellular and tissue based products (HCTPs) into 361 and 351 category products. While some controversy still exists, FDA has attempted to clarify these issues with several recent guidances. Of equal importance, FDA has ended enforcement discretion for many biologic products in June of 2021, creating a previously tolerated class of orthobiologics that now requires an Investigational New Drug (IND) application and subsequent Biologic License Application to legally market these orthobiologics. The Same Surgical Procedure Exception was further clarified in 2017 to exempt facilities from regulatory controls when specific guidelines are met. This article attempts to clarify the current thinking on FDA regulations and will allow the shoulder and elbow surgeon to stay within the current bounds of ethical and legal use of these products.

‘Point and Kill’ vs Animal Rights: A Moral Examination

This study critically examines the ethical implications of the practice known as "point and kill," wherein nonhuman animals are selected and immediately killed for food, a practice that has become commonplace in many African cultures. While food is essential for the survival and growth of both human and nonhuman animals, the manner in which nonhuman animals are often treated as mere commodities raises significant ethical concerns. Despite extensive debates in contemporary animal ethics, the focus has predominantly been on issues such as biomedical research, animal confinement, and entertainment, with relatively little attention given to the ethical ramifications of using animals for food, particularly in the context of practices like "point and kill." This paper addresses the gap in the literature by interrogating the moral worth of nonhuman animals and questioning the justification for their wanton killing for human consumption. Employing critical and conceptual analysis, the study draws on the Igbo philosophy of ‘ugwu anu’ (animal integrity) to argue against speciesism and advocate for the moral consideration of nonhuman animals. It contends that nonhuman animals deserve care, respect, and fair treatment, and that the practice of "point and kill" reflects a speciesist attitude that undermines the inherent value of animal life. By bringing this issue to the forefront, the study contributes to the broader discourse on animal ethics and calls for a reevaluation of culturally ingrained practices that perpetuate animal suffering.

Quantum Ethics: Navigating the Intersection of Quantum Mechanics and Metaethics in the Digital Era for a Just and Equitable Society

The advancement of quantum technologies and their integration with digital systems has resulted in enormous changes in society, providing new opportunities for furthering subjects such as artificial intelligence, the internet of things (IoT), and quantum computing. The ethical ramifications of these technologies, however, have not been adequately investigated, raising worries about their possible harmful influence on society. This research examines the convergence of quantum physics, metaethics, and the digital era in order to determine the implications of these technologies and to offer ethical frameworks for maintaining a just and equitable society. It will analyse the obstacles faced by the employment of quantum technologies in the digital era, including concerns relating to privacy, security, and the possibility for biased decision-making, through a thorough analysis of relevant literature. It then investigates the possibilities of multidisciplinary approaches that combine quantum mechanics and metaethics principles to overcome these issues and construct ethical frameworks that emphasize human values. The report suggests that a comprehensive strategy that prioritizes ethical issues is critical for the development of quantum technologies in the digital era. This necessitates a coordinated effort among stakeholders from many sectors such as technology, ethics, policy, and governance. The article provides a complete ethical framework that incorporates quantum mechanics and metaethics principles to ensure that the advantages of new technologies are realized while limiting any negative consequences.

Assessing Medical Students' Understanding of Do-Not-Resuscitate (DNR) Orders.

The evolution of medical directives surrounding cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) has led to the prominence of do-not-resuscitate (DNR) orders. These orders aim to respect patient autonomy and ensure dignified end-of-life care. While regulations in the United States emphasize patient choice and comprehensive discussions, Saudi Arabia's approach to DNR orders integrates Islamic principles alongside expert medical judgment. This study aimed to assess the awareness and comprehension of DNR orders among medical students at Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia. This study employed a cross-sectional design at Umm Al-Qura University in 2023. Convenience sampling yielded a sample of 145 participants, encompassing medical students from all years (first-sixth) and medical interns. A self-administered online questionnaire assessed participants' knowledge, beliefs, and attitudes regarding DNR orders. The questionnaire specifically addressed their familiarity with DNR orders, their understanding of the Islamic perspective on DNR, and the factors influencing their attitudes toward DNR. Results: The majority of respondents (62%) were familiar with the term "DNR," but only 52% correctly defined it. Social media was the primary source of information about DNR for most respondents (56%). A significant portion of respondents (60.7%) agreed with the concept of DNR, and 54% had personal experience with the term. Patient dignity (54%), religious concerns (66.7%), and legal concerns (60.7%) were identified as important factors in DNR decisions. A majority of respondents (67%) agreed that it is acceptable to discontinue life support for DNR patients, and 49.3% believed that organ donation should be encouraged among patient families. The study found that as medical students progressed through their training (from pre-clinical to clinical years and internship), their acceptance and understanding of DNR orders generally increased. The study found that medical students possess some basic familiarity with DNR orders, but there is considerable room for advancement in their comprehension and acceptance of the topic. Addressing these knowledge gaps may lead to improved patient outcomes. The findings also underscore the need to equip future physicians with a comprehensive understanding of DNR orders, their ethical ramifications, and effective communication strategies for engaging with patients and their families.

Rendering Frankenstein's monsters? The emergence and impacts of human digital twins

AbstractHuman digital twins (HDTs) are set to revolutionise human–system integration and improve human capacities, productivity, and well‐being by including human characteristics in system design. Reflecting real‐life behaviours and emotional reactions, HDTs render virtual data‐driven models of people. Their presence in many fields—including office work, education, and healthcare—showcases their ability to advance diagnoses, workforce training, and individualised learning. However, the general HDTs acceptance hypothesis calls for a critical analysis of their ethical ramifications and social influence. Emphasising the need of social adaptations to maintain stability, structural functionalism provides a suited framework to examine the roles of HDTs inside social systems. Despite their obvious advantages, HDTs raise ethical questions. While addressing concerns about user acceptance and ethical norms, engineers, designers and the legal regulators, but also the users—by means of ‘owners’—must consider the substantial consequences of HDTs and their customisation. HDTs' duality, like a double‐edged sword, calls for deliberate usage and considerable thought to negotiate the changing terrain of human–machine interaction.

What's That? Communicating Veganism through Absurd Fashion

This research explores the communication dynamics in absurd fashion, focusing on the sender-receiver model through Instagram captions and designs. Findings reveal that absurd fashion predominantly communicates through the sender-receiver model, where designers convey messages or critiques through their creations, and consumers interpret them accordingly. The axis of communication in absurd fashion revolves around issues such as, vegetables, and health, reflecting critiques, awareness campaigns, and shifts towards sustainability. Innovative material use, such as vegetables, fruits, and eco-friendly alternatives, displays the industry's commitment to sustainability and environmental awareness. Absurd fashion is a venue for societal analysis and action, in addition to being a means of self-expression. By embracing absurdity in fashion, designers and customers participate in a conversation that goes beyond aesthetics to address important societal and environmental issues. This research focuses light on fashion's transformational power as a communication medium, emphasizing the significance of understanding the ethical and social ramifications of design decisions in the modern fashion world

AI Unleashed: Pioneering Trends and Future Directions in Artificial Intelligence

Artificial Intelligence (AI) expeditiously transmutes from a specialized area of study to a key component of contemporary technology, propelling breakthroughs in a wide range of industries. AI Unleashed, Pioneering Trends and Future Directions in Artificial Intelligence is a study examining the current developments influencing the field's progress and future course. This study explores essential fields, including autonomous systems, machine learning, and natural language processing, showcasing new developments and present uses. It also considers AI's ethical and societal ramifications, including issues with prejudice, privacy, and the necessity of robust governance systems. Exploring the confluence of artificial intelligence (AI) with other cutting-edge technologies, such as quantum computing and the Internet of Things (IoT), highlights the potential for unparalleled capabilities. With a perspective beyond the future, this overview highlights the significant obstacles and possibilities that will shape artificial intelligence (AI), from improving human-machine interaction to expanding general intelligence. This assessment offers insights into the cutting-edge trends propelling AI forward and the future paths that will mold the next wave of AI innovation through an extensive examination.

Navigating the Integration of Machine Learning in Healthcare: Challenges, Strategies, and Ethical Considerations

The amalgamation of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) in healthcare offers a revolutionary prospect to improve patient outcomes, optimize workflow, and curtail expenses. Robust computational resources, competent interdisciplinary teams, and careful management of high-quality, diverse datasets are necessary for the successful deployment of ML models. To preserve public confidence and guarantee adherence to legal requirements, ethical issues, specifically those pertaining to patient consent, data privacy, and confidentiality are crucial. Regulatory bodies, legislators, and healthcare providers must all be involved in stakeholder engagement to establish a supportive environment for ML integration. The research highlights the significance of transparency and interpretability, promoting explainable AI models that augment clinician trust and enable wider adoption in the medical community. This thorough analysis finds important gaps in the current state of ML applications in healthcare and highlights new trends. It discusses ethical ramifications, realistic implementation guidelines, and the need for cooperative stakeholder engagement. The goal of the paper is to close the “translation gap” between model development and clinical application by examining real-world applications and offering a framework for the methodical integration of ML in clinical settings. The study promotes models that are not only technically sound but also user-friendly and in line with the practical needs of healthcare professionals by emphasizing the human-centric design of ML systems. By facilitating accurate and timely diagnoses, optimizing treatment plans, and eventually raising the standard of healthcare services as a whole, the strategic application of ML in the medical field holds the potential to completely transform patient care. This study opens the door to a future in which AI-driven healthcare solutions are smoothly integrated into routine clinical practice by providing useful insights and guidelines to enhance trustworthy and moral integration.

Actor-Network theory and a methodology for inquiring the online/offline of education

The paper explores what the methodological considerations are for a study of educational practice and networked learning in technologically dense classrooms. The approach of the discussed study is informed by Actor-Network Theory (ANT) (Latour, 2005) and the paper outlines the methodological consequences for adopting principles associated with ANT and post-humanist critiques of representational epistemology. The discussion is organised around overcoming an offline/online binary of educational practice and the use of screen recording software for data collection in ethnographic fieldwork in upper secondary classrooms. In this example, ethical ramifications are brought to the fore in relation to post-humanist traditions (Barad, 2003). The paper argues that the uncertainties exposed by troubling the two categories of human and language, by way of ethno-graphy, can serve as resource for a research practice informed by ANT.

The self-fulfilling prophecy in medicine

This article first describes the mechanism of any self-fulfilling prophecy through discussion of its four conditions: credibility, employment, employment sensitivity, and realization. Each condition is illustrated with examples specific to the medical context. The descriptive account ends with the definition of self-fulfilling prophecy and an expansion on collective self-fulfilling prophecies. Second, the normative account then discusses the moral relevance of self-fulfilling prophecies in medicine. A self-fulfilling prophecy is typically considered problematic when the prediction itself changes the predicted outcome to match the prediction (transformative self-fulfillment). I argue that also self-fulfilling prophecies that do not change the outcome but change the ways in which the outcome was realized (operative self-fulfillment), have significant ethical and epistemic ramifications. Because it is difficult to distinguish, retrospectively, between a transformative and an operative self-fulfilling prophecy, and thus between a false or true positive, it becomes equally difficult to catch mistakes. Moreover, since the prediction necessarily turns out true, there is never an error signal warning that a mistake might have been made. On the contrary, accuracy is seen as the standard for quality assurance. As such, self-fulfilling prophecies inhibit our ability to learn, inviting repetition and exacerbation of mistakes. With the rise of automated diagnostic and prognostic procedures and the increased use of machine learning and artificial intelligence for the development of predictive algorithms, attention to self-fulfilling feedback loops is especially warranted. This account of self-fulfilling prophecies is practically relevant for medical research and clinical practice. With it, researchers and practitioners can detect and analyze potential self-fulfilling mechanisms in any medical case and take responsibility for their ethical and epistemic implications.

Ethical Implications and Ramifications in the Case of Truong My Lan

This article examines the ethical and systemic failures surrounding the massive financial fraud orchestrated by Vietnamese real estate tycoon Truong My Lan. This study aims to analyze the intricate web of relationships, rights, duties, and potential responses to prevent such unethical practices in the future. Using a case study approach, the research critically evaluates the most appropriate responses and considers future preventive measures. The study draws on various scholarly sources and legal frameworks, including the Vietnamese Enterprise Law, the Labor Code, and international conventions such as the United Nations Convention Against Corruption. Findings suggest that strengthening regulatory oversight, enhancing corporate governance, and fostering a culture of transparency and accountability are crucial steps in addressing and preventing financial fraud. The research also highlights the importance of technological integration, public education, and international collaboration in building a resilient financial system. This study contributes to the broader discourse on business ethics and corporate governance by comprehensively analyzing one of Vietnam's most prominent fraud cases and proposing actionable measures to mitigate similar risks in the future.

Ethical Issues in Implementation Science: A Qualitative Interview Study of Participating Clinicians

Background Implementation science presents ethical issues not well addressed by traditional research ethics frameworks. There is little empirical work examining how clinicians whose work is affected by implementation studies view these issues. Accordingly, we interviewed clinicians working at sites participating in an implementation study seeking to improve patient handoffs to the intensive care unit (ICU). Methods We performed semi-structured interviews with 32 clinicians working at sites participating in an implementation study aiming to improve patient handoffs from the operating room to the ICU. We analyzed the interviews using an iterative coding process following a conventional content analysis approach. Results Clinicians’ greatest concern about involvement was possible damage to interpersonal relations with more senior clinicians. They were divided about whether informed consent from clinicians was necessary but were satisfied with the study’s approach of sending out mass communications about the study. They did not think opting out of the implementation portion of the study was feasible but saw this inability to opt out as unproblematic because they equated the study with routine quality improvement. Those clinicians who helped launch the study at their sites recounted several different ways of doing so beyond simply facilitating access. Conclusions The risks that clinicians identified stemmed more from their general status as employees than their specific work as clinicians. Implementation researchers should be attuned to the ethical ramifications of involving employees of varying ranks. Implementation researchers using hybrid designs should also be sensitive to the possibility that practitioners affected by a study will equate it with quality improvement and overlook its research component. Finally, the interactions that go into facilitating an implementation study are more various than the “gatekeeping” typically discussed by research ethicists. More research is needed on the ethics of the myriad interactions that are involved in making implementation studies happen.

From books to bytes: a systematic review of the role of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in academic library administration

The role of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in administration is crucial as academic libraries transition from traditional repositories to dynamic digital platforms. This Systematic Literature Review (SLR) delves into ICT's impacts and applications in academic library management. The study focused on: the mechanisms and extent of ICT adoption in administrative functions, the discernible benefits and challenges associated with the deployment of ICT; and the prospective trajectories for ICT utilisation in academic libraries. Following a rigorous review methodology, twenty-six (26) peer-reviewed articles from 2020 to 2023, sourced from ScienceDirect and Web of Science, were reviewed. Findings highlight diverse applications of ICT, ranging from operational tasks such as cataloguing and analytics to strategic responsibilities like decision-making and planning. Significantly, the study uncovers latent research gaps, especially in emerging technologies, ethical ramifications, and geographical nuances, thereby delineating avenues for future academic endeavours . Additionally, the study sheds light on the variegated nature of ICT applications, pointing to success factors, challenges including digital divides, and security concerns. Thus, the study serves as a historical evaluation and prospective guide for scholars, administrators, and policymakers, delineating the intricate interplay between technological innovation, human factors, and strategic planning in academic library administration.

Nudging against consent is effective but lowers welfare

Behavioural nudges are often criticised because they “work best in the dark”. However, recent experimental evidence suggests that the effectiveness of nudges is not reduced when they are delivered transparently. Most people also endorse transparent nudges. Yet, transparent nudging may undermine human autonomy—a minority may oppose to being nudged and feel manipulated, even if they know what is happening. We propose an alternative way of maintaining autonomy that is not reducible to transparency: individuals can be asked if they consent in advance to being nudged. To assess whether consensual nudges are effective, we ask consent from 1518 UK citizens to be nudged. Subsequently, we default all participants into donating to a charity of their choice, irrespective of self-reported consent. We find that the default nudge is equally effective for both consenting and non-consenting individuals, with negligible difference in average donations. However, non-consenting individuals report higher levels of resentment and regret and lower levels of happiness and support compared to the consenting group. Based on these findings, we argue that ignoring consent can have serious ethical ramifications for policy-making with nudges.

Where is the Seeker Who Searches for Another? Decolonial Approaches to Digital Public History

Abstract This article delves into the role of public history within the context of suppressed and erased colonial pasts, underscoring the importance of individuals in actively shaping, uncovering, documenting and disseminating history. The period from the late 1940s–1960s marked a pivotal transition for the British Empire, as numerous colonies gained independence. This shift in sovereignty from colonial rule to sovereign nations unveiled deep apprehensions regarding the potential use of Britain’s historical actions and documents by newly independent governments. Operation Legacy was a clandestine initiative by British colonial authorities to destroy or hide records that could tarnish the British government’s image or compromise secret intelligence. The ethical ramifications of this operation, and its impact on the construction of memory and knowledge, remain a contentious issue for many in former colonies who are still striving to piece together their colonial history and seek justice for past wrongs. By highlighting the experience, methodologies and challenges of the Museum of British Colonialism collective, the article explores what a framework for decolonial public history may look like in a digital age. Decolonial public history requires negotiations that are continuously shaped by interrogating multiple sources, employing multiple mediums, engaging diverse audiences, and constantly reflecting and refining one’s own process and methodology. Inspired by Ngugi wa Thiong’o’s influential work Devil on the Cross, which portrays resistance to colonialism as a communal and interconnected endeavor, the article reflects on the character Wariinga’s query: “Where is the seeker who searches for another?” It concludes with thoughts on how digital public history can achieve decolonial significance and effectiveness, not merely through technological means, but by centering human connections and extensively building communities of practice across multiple frontiers.

Exploring Antibiotic Resistance Through Artificial Intelligence: A Novel Perspective

Microbial resistance has long been linked to antibiotic resistance, a serious worldwide health issue. But as technology advances quickly in this day and age, a related phenomenon in the field of artificial intelligence [AI] is beginning to take shape. In order to better understand the idea of "antibiotic resistance" in the context of artificial intelligence [AI], this study will compare and contrast the evolution of bacterial resistance with potential obstacles in the design and implementation of intelligent systems. The increasing prevalence of AI systems across several industries highlights the striking similarities between their capacity to adapt and withstand hostile attacks and changing surroundings, and the biological resistance mechanisms seen in bacteria. This study explores the causes behind AI resistance, looking at how data drift, adversarial manipulations, and changing user behavior might cause machine learning systems to lose their effectiveness over time. The paper also examines the ethical ramifications of AI resistance, addressing issues with biases, unforeseen outcomes, and the influence of intelligent systems on society that are resistant to change or intervention. The area of antibiotic stewardship in medicine serves as an inspiration for the paper's discussion of potential mitigation techniques for AI resistance. Through the identification of parallels between AI resistance and antibiotic resistance in bacteria, this study adds to a better comprehension of the difficulties pertaining to the long-term viability and efficiency of intelligent systems. Since AI will continue to be a major influence on the future, it is critical to address the problem of "antibiotic resistance" in this context in order to ensure that AI is developed responsibly and ethically.

Green with Arrogance: Dominant Brands Benefit from Arrogant Appeals

Consumers increasingly expect brands to contribute positively to the environment. This trend has created a race for brands to establish their “green” credentials. Asserting their superiority—a strategy we refer to as an arrogant appeal—may allow some brands to connect with this consumer preference if perceived as credible; however, when this brand communication lacks credibility, consumers lose trust and suspect brands of greenwashing. Applying expectancy violation theory and signaling theory to green advertising, we find a specific message source (level of brand dominance) influences the effectiveness of an arrogant appeal. Specifically, via the use of two experiments, we demonstrate that consumers use market dominance as a cue to establish the credibility of an arrogant appeal. This research (a) builds on comparative advertising literature to introduce the concept of arrogant appeal to the literature, (b) identifies a new credibility signal—brand dominance—for the effectiveness of green advertising appeals, (c) extends marketing research on arrogance to message design and source characteristics, and (d) discusses the ethical ramifications of consumers inferring credibility based on market dominance. A critical finding is that more dominant brands have earned the right to deploy an arrogant appeal based on a consumer heuristic.