Computer Software, Moral Theories and Policy Vacuums

Abstract

Computer software is a unique technological advancement which creates enormous possibilities, but also raises complex moral probler?zs. In one way, these moral problems are not entirely new in character; rather a new dimension of traditional moral dilemmas. On the other, we are not ready yet to tackle them with traditional nzoral norms andprinciples. Several new normative guidelines are required for computer technology related issues, such as, privacy, property rights, internet control, conJidentiality, cyber harm, and cyber risk. More importantly, software ownership right, a right which is absent in traditional ethical discussions, is necessacv to protect. However, as software is a completely new creative work, traditional legal framework (e.g. copy right, patent, and trade secrecy laws) and philosophical ownership theories (e.g. labour theory, utilitarian theory) are inappropriate to protect the right of software owner or its inventor: A lack of effective ownership laws, inadequate ethical principles as well as traditional philosophical grounding have created policy vacuum in computer software property rights.