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Who didn't see this coming? At some point the software industry, of which I am actively a part, has to take responsibility for what we make. Hiding behind sec
by AdieuToLogic 3y ago
Who didn't see this coming?
At some point the software industry, of which I am actively a part, has to take responsibility for what we make. Hiding behind section 230 and/or "just following orders" (ahem, "requirements") no longer cuts it.
Professional ethics are demanded from accountants, lawyers, doctors, and physical engineering disciplines. There are real consequences in those professions when some fail to uphold the covenant expected of them.
Software engineering can no longer be solely about revenue without accountability.
- syndicatedjelly 3y agoSoftware engineering is such a broad field, and spans work from making a web app to building mission-critical software for a nuclear power plant. "Professional ethics" are demanded for all the professions you described because there is no "web dev" version of an accountant or doctor - their work, when done improperly, can damage human lives. The thing is, software engineering in regulated fields already is regulated. A degree is required to work on software for many medical device companies, regulations are in place to ensure code is written safely. Could all of this be improved? Sure. But your last sentence is just not true for regulated industry. If you amended your comment to specifically address social media companies, then yes I agree.