Description: Ethical technology refers to the development and use of technologies in alignment with ethical principles and standards. This involves considering the social, environmental, and economic impact of technologies, as well as their ability to promote human well-being and justice. In the context of artificial intelligence (AI), ethics becomes a crucial aspect, as automated decisions can have significant consequences on people’s lives. Ethical technology seeks to mitigate biases, ensure transparency, and protect privacy, ensuring that technological innovations benefit society as a whole. This approach focuses not only on creating responsible products but also on fostering a culture of accountability among technology developers and users. Ethics in technology has become increasingly relevant in a world where AI and other advanced technologies are integrated into nearly every aspect of daily life, from healthcare to education and employment. Therefore, ethical technology is not just a trend but an imperative need to build a sustainable and equitable future.
History: The concept of ethical technology has evolved over the past few decades, especially with the rise of artificial intelligence and big data. In the 1970s, concerns about the use of technology and its impact on society began to be raised, but it was in the 2000s that the term started to gain traction. In 2016, the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) published a code of ethics addressing the responsibility of technology professionals. Since then, various organizations and governments have begun to develop ethical frameworks to guide the development of AI and other technologies.
Uses: Ethical technology is applied in various areas, including software development, artificial intelligence, data collection, and privacy. It is used to create algorithms that minimize biases, design systems that protect user privacy, and develop policies that promote transparency in technology use. Additionally, it is applied in creating standards for corporate social responsibility in technology companies.
Examples: Examples of ethical technology include the use of AI algorithms that have been audited to avoid racial or gender biases, social media platforms that implement robust privacy policies, and health applications that ensure user data confidentiality. Initiatives such as the ‘AI Ethics Guidelines’ from the European Union, which aims to establish ethical principles for AI development, can also be mentioned.
