Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The notion of 'progress' in ethical standards implies a movement towards principles that prioritize human well-being, justice, fairness, and respect for autonomy. While often assumed to be linear, ethical evolution is a complex process shaped by societal values, philosophical thought, and historical context. Technological development, characterized by the creation of tools and systems to solve problems and enhance capabilities, is frequently presented as a driver of progress. However, the relationship between technological advancement and ethical improvement is not automatic or unidirectional. This answer will explore whether technological development inherently leads to progress in ethical standards, considering both its enabling and challenging aspects.
Technological Development as a Catalyst for Ethical Progress
Technology can undeniably contribute to ethical advancement in several ways:
- Enhanced Information Access & Transparency: The internet and social media, despite their drawbacks, have democratized information, enabling greater scrutiny of power structures and promoting accountability. The #MeToo movement (2017 onwards) exemplifies how technology facilitated the widespread sharing of experiences and challenged existing power dynamics.
- Improved Healthcare & Well-being: Medical technologies, from vaccines to advanced diagnostics, directly improve human health and extend lifespans, aligning with ethical principles of beneficence and non-maleficence. CRISPR gene editing technology, while ethically complex, holds the potential to eradicate genetic diseases.
- Facilitating Social Justice Movements: Technologies like mobile phones and encrypted communication tools empower marginalized communities to organize, advocate for their rights, and challenge injustice. The Arab Spring uprisings (2010-2012) demonstrated the role of social media in mobilizing protests.
- Promoting Efficiency & Sustainability: Technologies aimed at renewable energy, resource management, and pollution control contribute to environmental sustainability, reflecting an ethical concern for future generations.
The Ethical Challenges Posed by Technological Development
However, technological development also presents significant ethical challenges:
- Privacy Concerns: Data collection, surveillance technologies, and the erosion of privacy pose threats to individual autonomy and freedom. The Cambridge Analytica scandal (2018) highlighted the misuse of personal data for political manipulation.
- Bias & Discrimination: Algorithms and AI systems can perpetuate and amplify existing societal biases, leading to discriminatory outcomes in areas like hiring, loan applications, and criminal justice. Facial recognition technology has been shown to be less accurate for people of color.
- Job Displacement & Economic Inequality: Automation and AI-driven job displacement can exacerbate economic inequality and create social unrest, raising ethical questions about the distribution of wealth and opportunities.
- Weaponization of Technology: The development of autonomous weapons systems (AWS), or 'killer robots', raises profound ethical concerns about accountability, the potential for unintended consequences, and the dehumanization of warfare. The Campaign to Stop Killer Robots advocates for a ban on AWS.
- Digital Divide & Access Inequality: Unequal access to technology creates a digital divide, exacerbating existing social and economic disparities. According to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), as of 2023, 37% of the global population remains offline.
The Role of Social Shaping & Regulation
The impact of technology on ethical standards is not predetermined. The concept of social shaping of technology argues that technology is not an autonomous force but is shaped by social, political, and economic factors. Therefore, ethical progress is not simply a byproduct of technological innovation but requires conscious effort to:
- Develop Ethical Frameworks: Establishing clear ethical guidelines and regulations for the development and deployment of new technologies is crucial. The European Union's AI Act (2024) is a landmark attempt to regulate AI based on risk levels.
- Promote Digital Literacy & Critical Thinking: Empowering individuals with the skills to critically evaluate information and navigate the digital world is essential.
- Foster Inclusive Innovation: Ensuring that technological development benefits all members of society, not just a privileged few, is vital.
- Encourage Ethical Design: Integrating ethical considerations into the design process of new technologies can help mitigate potential harms.
| Technology | Potential Ethical Benefit | Potential Ethical Challenge |
|---|---|---|
| Artificial Intelligence | Improved healthcare diagnostics, personalized education | Algorithmic bias, job displacement, autonomous weapons |
| Social Media | Increased civic engagement, rapid information dissemination | Privacy violations, spread of misinformation, cyberbullying |
| Biotechnology (CRISPR) | Cure for genetic diseases, improved crop yields | Ethical concerns about gene editing, potential for misuse |
Conclusion
In conclusion, technological development does not automatically lead to progress in ethical standards. While technology offers powerful tools for promoting human well-being and social justice, it also presents significant ethical challenges. The relationship is complex and contingent on how technology is developed, deployed, and regulated. Ethical progress requires a proactive and deliberate approach, involving ethical frameworks, inclusive innovation, and a commitment to social responsibility. Ultimately, technology is a tool, and its impact on ethical standards depends on the values and choices of those who wield it.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.