English 421Y: Technical Writing Online

I found this week’s assigned readings to be very useful, important, and relevant both independently and in regard to the white paper project. First off, chapter 5 of Technical Communication Today opens with a reference to the widespread (illegal) downloading of MP3s by Internet users everywhere. With this act, TCT calls into question the ethics of the situation, specifically, “is this ethical?” TCT simply responds that “the music industry says no,” but I think it’s safe to say no in any context. The question is not asking if it is possible to share the music or if you feel you should be able to, the question is strictly “is it ethical?” When considering what this entails, that is, what you pay for when you buy any media, the answer is obviously no. This is literally something I deal with everyday at work, and whereas many despise organizations such as the RIAA and the MPAA, I can understand their argument and see that they are ethically correct.

To fully comprehend the opening scenario though, and how to ensure an ethical white paper, it is important to understand what ethics are exactly, which is not completely cut-and-dry. According to TCT, “ethics are systems of moral, social, or cultural values that govern the conduct of an individual or community.” I believe anyone reading that definition would agree it is fairly difficult to fully understand and is relatively subjective. The best summarization, as presented by TCT as well, would say that “acting ethically simply means doing the right thing.” Although still subjective, this definition is a bit more relatable since each individual “has a good sense of right and wrong, which is likely derived from your family, culture, and faith” (TCT). I was not surprised to see that TCT referenced the “Golden Rule,” which suggests to “do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” This is the definition of ethics as I learned it and feel it is thorough and precise.

The most relevant information presented in this week’s reading is the outline of personal and social ethics. I think that personal ethics have had the most impact in my previous projects but both will have a significant impact on the current white paper project. For instance, in researching the topics of information I’m responsible for, it is important that I adhere to my personal ethics and, for example, do not lie about the information I collect, plagiarize any content, hurt others through my words, or any of a lengthy list of ethically incorrect behavior. Furthermore, as this is a group project, it is imperative that I adhere to accepted social ethics as well. According to TCT, “the most difficult ethical dilemmas are usually found in the social realm.” Anyone’s list of socially ethical behavior would be unending, but ethics scholar Manual Velasquez has designed a helpful four-part categorization of social ethical situation to adhere to which consists of rights, justice, utility, and care (TCT). It is important that each of these be considered in any work, but especially concerning group activity such as the white paper project. I think it is safe to assume that we have all been in a group where one member may have not carried his or her own share of the workload. This is an example of violating the ethics of justice, according to Velasquez.

The assigned reading this week, from chapter 5 of TCT, has presented a range of information that will prove beneficial both immediately, regarding the white paper project, and in future documents/projects. Also, I am confident that my team and I will address any ethical situations that arise as a team, in accordance with this week’s readings and our own ethical judgment.