A micro-ethical view on computing practice

ABSTRACT

Critical computing should include a concern for the everyday work practice of IT professionals. We explain our 'micro-ethical view', which shifts focus towards everyday work culture, seemingly mundane action, and describe what is gained thereby and by 'preventive' ethics. Four scenarios illustrate the situations relevant for our analysis. Reconstructing the history of 'responsibility' uncovers various concepts that provide fields of tension and systematize our analysis. We finish with related research questions relevant for this micro-ethical view that offer a broad field for research, as well as for professional action.

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INDEX TERMS

Keywords:
ethics, everyday work practice, moral improvisation, professional practice, responsibility, self-reflection, work culture