Ethics in Computing: Understanding the Fundamentals

Question 1

According to the ethical theory of utilitarianism, an action is considered ethically correct if it:

Accepted Answer

Produces the greatest overall benefit and minimizes harm

Answer

Complies with established legal norms

Answer

Aligns with one's own personal values

Answer

Promotes the common good of society

Question 2

What is the primary objective of ethical guidelines in computing?

Accepted Answer

To provide a framework for ethical decision-making

Answer

To strictly dictate acceptable behaviors for professionals

Answer

To establish consequences for ethical violations

Answer

To promote a culture of ethical conduct

Question 3

Which of the following is a key characteristic of ethical reasoning?

Accepted Answer

Consideration of multiple viewpoints

Answer

Objectivity

Answer

Emotional neutrality

Answer

Prioritization of personal beliefs

Question 4

Which ethical theory prioritizes maximizing overall happiness and well-being?

Accepted Answer

Utilitarianism

Answer

Deontology

Answer

Virtue ethics

Answer

Kantianism

Question 5

The ethical principle that emphasizes avoiding harm is known as:

Accepted Answer

Non-maleficence

Answer

Beneficence

Answer

Autonomy

Answer

Justice

Question 6

Which ethical theory emphasizes the cultivation of virtues and ethical character?

Accepted Answer

Virtue ethics

Answer

Deontology

Answer

Consequentialism

Answer

Utilitarianism

Question 7

Which of the following is NOT a compelling reason for ethical reflection among computing professionals?

Accepted Answer

Gaining a competitive edge

Answer

Making informed decisions

Answer

Reducing potential risks and liabilities

Answer

Meeting regulatory compliance

Question 8

The ethical principle of autonomy refers to the individual's:

Accepted Answer

Capacity to make independent choices

Answer

Obligation to act in the best interests of others

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Duty to obey societal rules

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Responsibility for the consequences of one's actions

Question 9

Which of the following best exemplifies a deontological ethical principle?

Accepted Answer

Never intentionally causing harm to others

Answer

Pursuing actions that result in the greatest happiness

Answer

Developing habits that promote ethical conduct

Answer

Distributing resources fairly among all members of society

Question 10

The concept of moral relativism suggests that:

Accepted Answer

Moral values vary depending on cultural and societal contexts

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Moral values are universal and unchanging

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Moral values should be based solely on religious teachings

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Moral values can be objectively determined through scientific inquiry

Question 11

Which of the following is a fundamental ethical principle that emphasizes personal autonomy and self-determination?

Accepted Answer

Autonomy

Answer

Beneficence

Answer

Justice

Answer

Non-maleficence

Question 12

According to deontological ethics, the rightness or wrongness of an action is primarily determined by:

Accepted Answer

Its adherence to moral rules

Answer

Its consequences

Answer

The intentions of the actor

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The social norms it conforms to

Question 13

Which ethical theory advocates for actions that maximize utility, or happiness, for the greatest number of people?

Accepted Answer

Utilitarianism

Answer

Kantianism

Answer

Virtue ethics

Answer

Existentialism

Question 14

The concept of 'moral agency' refers to:

Accepted Answer

The ability of individuals to make ethical decisions and bear moral responsibility for their actions

Answer

The authority of institutions and organizations to enforce ethical standards

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The influence of external factors on ethical behavior

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The legal consequences of unethical actions

Question 15

The ethical principle of 'informed consent' requires that:

Accepted Answer

Individuals must have a clear understanding of the potential risks and benefits before agreeing to participate in research or medical procedures

Answer

Professionals must always obtain written consent from individuals before engaging in any form of interaction

Answer

Consent can be implied through a person's actions or behavior

Answer

Consent is not necessary in cases of emergencies or life-threatening situations

Question 16

The ethical principle of 'justice' emphasizes the importance of:

Accepted Answer

Treating all individuals fairly and equitably, regardless of their background or circumstances

Answer

Distributing resources based solely on individual merit

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Prioritizing the interests of the majority over the interests of the minority

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Upholding the rule of law without exception

Question 17

Which of the following is a key concept in virtue ethics?

Accepted Answer

Cultivating virtues, or positive character traits, such as honesty, courage, and compassion

Answer

Applying abstract moral principles to specific situations

Answer

Maximizing pleasure and minimizing pain

Answer

Fulfilling one's duties and obligations

Question 18

The ethical principle of 'non-maleficence' requires that:

Accepted Answer

Individuals should refrain from causing harm to others, even if there is a potential benefit

Answer

Professionals have a duty to actively prevent harm to others

Answer

Harm is sometimes justified if it is necessary to achieve a greater good

Answer

Harm is an inevitable part of life and should be accepted

Question 19

Which of the following is NOT a major contribution of ancient Greek philosophers to the evolution of ethical thought?

Accepted Answer

Introduction of the social contract theory

Answer

Emphasis on reason and logical reasoning

Answer

Development of virtue ethics

Answer

Recognition of the role of emotions in ethical decision-making

Question 20

Analyze the multifaceted ethical implications of an emerging technology, such as gene-editing, and discuss strategies for addressing these concerns.

Accepted Answer

The ethical implications of emerging technologies should be evaluated through the lens of existing ethical theories.

Answer

The ethical considerations of emerging technologies primarily revolve around data privacy and security.

Answer

Emerging technologies should be embraced without ethical scrutiny, as they invariably benefit society.

Answer

Government regulations are the sole mechanism for addressing ethical concerns posed by emerging technologies.

Question 21

Which of the following is a distinguishing feature of ethical behavior?

Accepted Answer

Consideration for the well-being and rights of others

Answer

Solely pursuing personal gain

Answer

Ignoring societal norms and regulations

Question 22

What is the core purpose of ethical principles?

Accepted Answer

To guide decision-making and actions towards morally acceptable outcomes

Answer

To provide a definitive solution to every ethical dilemma

Answer

To ensure personal popularity and social approval

Question 23

Which ethical theory focuses on evaluating actions based on their overall consequences?

Accepted Answer

Utilitarianism

Answer

Virtue ethics

Answer

Kantian ethics

Answer

Existentialism

Question 24

What is a key distinction between ethical dilemmas and ethical conflicts?

Accepted Answer

Ethical dilemmas present multiple acceptable options, while ethical conflicts involve a clash between two or more right choices.

Answer

Ethical dilemmas are solely theoretical, while ethical conflicts are always practical.

Question 25

What is a primary benefit of utilizing ethical frameworks in decision-making?

Accepted Answer

They facilitate the identification and analysis of relevant ethical considerations.

Answer

They eliminate the need for personal judgment and critical thinking

Answer

They guarantee the selection of the ethically superior option in all cases

Question 26

What is the role of moral intuition in ethical decision-making?

Accepted Answer

It provides an immediate emotional response to ethical situations, guiding initial reactions

Answer

It serves as a substitute for rational thinking and logical analysis

Answer

It ensures the ethical superiority of all decisions made

Question 27

Which of the following is NOT a core principle of professional ethics in computing?

Accepted Answer

Prioritizing financial gain over ethical responsibilities

Answer

Protecting user privacy and data security

Answer

Honoring intellectual property rights

Answer

Using technology responsibly and considering its societal impact

Question 28

What is the primary objective of ethical guidelines and codes of conduct?

Accepted Answer

To offer professionals clear direction and guidance regarding ethical behavior in their field

Answer

To promote self-serving behavior and maximize personal benefits

Answer

To establish a system of punishment for unethical conduct

Question 29

What is the significance of ethics in the field of computing?

Accepted Answer

It guides the development and use of technology in a responsible and socially beneficial manner

Answer

It ensures that computing professionals always make the right decisions

Answer

It eliminates the potential for ethical challenges and controversies in computing