Ethical Issues

Computer ScienceOCRGCSEUnit: 3.8 Ethical, Legal, Cultural and Environmental Impacts
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The basics

Right and Wrong in Tech

Right and Wrong in Tech

Technology gives us amazing power, but "with great power comes great responsibility." Is it ethical for companies to collect all your data? Should AI be allowed to make decisions about job applications? Is it fair that automation replaces human workers? These aren't technical questions - they're about what's RIGHT. Computer scientists must think not just "can we build this?" but "should we build this?"
What is an ethical issue?: A question about what is morally right or wrong
Key terms

Computer Science glossary

What is an ethical issue?
A question about what is morally right or wrong
Exam tip

Earn the mark scheme marks

Exam Tips - Ethical Issues

When answering discussion questions:

  • Always give BOTH sides - benefits AND concerns
  • Use specific, concrete examples to strengthen your answer
  • Remember: something can be legal but still unethical
  • Show awareness of multiple perspectives

Common mistakes to avoid:

  • Being one-sided - examiners want balanced discussion
  • Being too vague - "privacy is bad" vs "facial recognition databases could be hacked"
  • Confusing ethical issues with legal issues
  • Forgetting that ethics considers what's morally right, not just what's allowed

Now try it yourself

Quiz · Question 1 of 15

Which of the following best describes an ethical issue in computing?

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