Vidic 2:00
L20
SELLING OUT: MONEY OR MORALS?
Robert Zamboky (raz30@pitt.edu)
THE SCENARIO
I someday plan to be employed as a software
developer/engineer. That is why I am majoring in computer
engineering at Pitt; it is a versatile degree that will allow me
to achieve this goal. However, with such a degree, it is also
possible that I will work in a field related to computer
hardware technology. Whether I am directly working on the
hardware or simply working on software for some new
hardware, there is a chance I could be working in the field of
quantum computing.
In my previous paper, I discussed the technology of
quantum computing and how it could impact the field of
engineering. Given the benefits could be so extensive, I
believe it is very possible I will in some way be working with
the technology of quantum computers [1]. Therefore, the
scenario I will be discussing is not only an abstract possibility,
but a situation that I could very well encounter as a
professional. As a result I have thought about this as if I was
truly in this situation and combined my convictions with my
research to arrive at a conclusion as to how to handle such an
ethical dilemma. The scenario is as follows:
Eleven years from now I develop software for a large
computing company who is leading in the field of quantum
computer research. Research in the field of quantum
computing has progressed steadily since 2014 and quantum
computers are now commercially available. Unfortunately,
none of them is capable of anything close to the level of
performance that is theoretically possible for a quantum
computer. All that could change, however, now that my team
has developed a quantum computer using a new method that
is orders of magnitude more powerful than any computer
developed before [2]. This is a huge breakthrough for the field
of computing and engineering – my superiors are extremely
pleased with the results of my research. The computer is still
early technology, however, and they want to perfect it while
also solidifying our position in the market. My team and I are
under strict orders of secrecy to keep this technology a secret;
even if someone should find out about it, under no
circumstances are they to learn any details.
Outside of work, I have been suffering financially.
Unexpected situations have caused me to accumulate a
mountain of debt and even with my lucrative job my family is
in trouble. It is at this time that I am contacted by a mysterious
person – they do not give me a name, but they claim they are
from the government and desire our computing technology
for themselves. In exchange for leaking the technology,
specifically the software I have developed (they assure me my
superiors will never find out who was responsible), they offer
me one million dollars – possibly more if I continue to give
them the fruits of our research. This money is more than
University of Pittsburgh, Swanson School of Engineering
2014-10-28
enough to free me from my financial difficulties; what should
I do?
WHY IS THIS SUCH A BIG DEAL?
One question that may arise while looking at this
situation is why this particular technology is worth so much
money. As I mentioned briefly before, quantum computers
are theoretically capable of incredibly vast computational
abilities. Only a handful of qubits, or quantum bits, could
achieve processing power equivalent to modern-day
computers while a small collection could possess the ability
to rival supercomputers [1]. In fact, John Weckert states in his
essay “Lilliputian Computer Ethics” that estimates have
predicted quantum computers could even be millions or
billions of times more powerful than today’s computers. This
would lead to computers that may be capable of manipulating,
retrieving useful information from, and tracking vast amounts
of data [2].
Taking this information into consideration, the
amount of money that I have been offered should not be too
shocking. The technology I have helped to develop is capable
of surveillance on an immense scale [2]. It also possesses the
ability to break through some of the most secure cyber
security systems currently in place [3]. Additionally, even for
those that possess rudimentary quantum computers, without
the right software structured specifically for the computer
there is a good chance the hardware will be useless [4].
Because of the highly specialized software that I
have written and my access to the actual design of the
quantum computer, I could provide this government contact
with the single most powerful piece of surveillance and
security technology on the planet. I have been targeted
because I am not a vital leader in my company and I have a
difficult financial situation that can only be solved with a large
sum of money. Given the value of the information I have
access to and the ostensible resources of a member of the
government, such a large sum of money is reasonable. Before
I make a decision concerning this dilemma, there are several
sources I must consult to make sure I am making the ethical
choice.
ETHICAL SOURCES FOR
CONSIDERATION
First is the Code of Ethics for the National Society
of Professional Engineers, or NSPE. My conduct as a
professional in the field of engineering must line up with the
rules and guidelines set forth in this code [5]. Additionally, I
must consult the Institute of Electrical and Electronics
Robert Zamboky
Engineers (IEEE) Software Engineering Code of Ethics. As a
member of the IEEE and a software engineer, my conduct
must fall within these guidelines as well [6].
Finally, I look at what is found in the Bible. As a
Christian, I value the truth that is found in the Word of God
above all else. As the absolute standard for all of my ethics,
whatever it says about handling this situation is what I must
do [7].
APPLYING THESE SOURCES
As I look at everything before me, I realize that I
must consider every source before I make a decision. It is not
necessarily that each source is wildly different from the others
and I must make a decision based on my best guess of what
should be done; on the contrary, every source agrees with
each other and points me in the same direction.
IEEE Code of Ethics
I start with the IEEE Software Engineering Code of
Ethics, because it is the code most closely related to my field.
The rules laid down in this document are very clear about
what should be done. There are several noteworthy sections
to consider as I think about my situation. I look at Principle 1:
Public. This principle states that “Software engineers shall act
consistently with the public interest.” Of particular note is
section 1.03 where the code states a software engineer must
make sure his software does not “diminish quality of life,
diminish privacy or harm the environment” [6]. Clearly, in
this situation, I would be putting people’s privacy at risk,
given the surveillance capabilities of my company’s quantum
computer [2]. People’s information all over the world would
be threatened as this computer is also capable of breaking
through many cyber security measures that are currently in
place [3]. I would be placing the public at serious risk by
accepting the offer.
I would not only be placing the public at risk,
however, but also my employer. In Principle 2: Client and
Employer, the code states “Software engineers shall act in a
manner that is in the best interests of their client and
employer” and goes on to say in section 2.05 that software
engineers are to “Keep private any confidential information
gained in their professional work” [6]. Obviously, by leaking
technology my employer has specifically instructed me to
keep confidential I would be violating this section of the code
as well.
My contact is dubious as well. I have no proof that
he is actually from the government; even if he is, I would still
violate section 4.06 of Principle 4: Judgment in which the
code states software engineers must “Refuse to
participate…in a private, governmental or professional body
concerned with software related issues, in which they…have
undisclosed potential conflicts of interest.” Such a violation
of integrity is unacceptable. Sections 6.05, 6.10, and 8.09 are
further proof that I will violate this code should I decide to
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accept the offer; I cannot place myself over the company or
associate with an organization that would seek to violate the
code in any way [6].
NSPE Code of Ethics
Unsurprisingly, much of what the NSPE Code of
Ethics says concerning this matter is very similar to or directly
mirrors what is found in the IEEE Code. The differences lie
primarily in the fact that the NSPE Code applies to all fields
of engineering, while the IEEE Software Engineer Code
applies specifically to software development. However, the
similarities are striking and leave no room for confusion.
The Fundamental Canons found in the NSPE are a
good overview of the ethical standard to which professional
engineers are held. They state that engineers again must hold
the public interest in the highest regard, be faithful to their
employers, and uphold honesty and integrity [5]. Already I
can see that accepting the government agent’s offer would
violate the NSPE Code.
There is more to be found within this code, however.
Further examination reveals that I cannot allow myself to do
business with one so untrustworthy; this would violate
Section II: Rules of Practice subsection 1.4, where the code
states “Engineers shall not…associate in business ventures
with any person or firm that they believe is engaged in
fraudulent or dishonest enterprise.” Section II subsection 4.3
also states that “Engineers shall not solicit or accept
financial…consideration, directly or indirectly, from outside
agents in connection with the work for which they are
responsible” [5]. These rules make it very clear that
conducting business with whoever this contact is would be in
violation of the NSPE Code of Ethics.
Section III: Professional Obligations contains further
information about the ethical considerations I should make.
Subsection 1 establishes that engineers must possess a high
standard of honesty and integrity. Subsection 2 again exhorts
engineers to “serve the public interest.” Finally subsection 4
reiterates the fact that “Engineers shall not disclose, without
consent, confidential information concerning the business
affairs or technical processes of any present...employer” [5].
Each of these subsections reinforces ethical standards that I
have already examined in the IEEE Code of Ethics. The ethics
are overwhelmingly stacked against accepting the offer.
However, I really do need that money – and the contact
guarantees I would never be caught. Would giving up the
information really be that bad?
THE BIBLE: THE ABSOLUTE STANDARD
Absolutely! Accepting the offer would by all means
be morally unacceptable. It would violate many sections of at
least two significant codes of ethics. But with such a tempting
sum of money, the offer is almost too good to resist. However,
there is one more text I must consult: the Bible.
Robert Zamboky
As a Christian, I take the Bible to be the Word of
God. Therefore, everything that is written in it must be truth.
As truth, it is the absolute standard by which all else is
measured. So far, I have only considered natural lists of
ethical guidelines in my decision, and I am still tempted to
take the money. I must find the final answer within the pages
of Scripture.
Colossians 3:22-24 says this: “Slaves, in all things
obey those who are your masters on earth, not with external
service, as those who merely please men, but with sincerity of
heart, fearing the Lord. Whatever you do, do your
work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men, knowing
that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the
inheritance. It is the Lord Christ whom you serve;” Ephesians
6:5 says “Slaves, be obedient to those who are your masters
according to the flesh” [7]. Though I am not a slave, these
verses apply to all employees. I am instructed to serve my
employer as though I am serving the Lord. Accepting the offer
would be betraying my master, something I cannot do.
The argument could be made that it is just one time;
after all, I don’t need the future money. My employer does not
need to know about this one time. However, Luke 16:10 states
that “he who is unrighteous in a very little thing is unrighteous
also in much” [7]. Thus even something that is a seemingly
small offense equates to a serious matter.
What of my financial situation? My need for the
money is the chief reason I am tempted to take the offer. In
this, too, I have an answer. Jeremiah 29:11 contains these
words: “’For I know the plans that I have for you,’ declares
the Lord, ‘plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you
a future and a hope.’” Furthermore, in Matthew 6:31-33 the
Word says “Do not worry then, saying, ‘What will we eat?’
or ‘What will we drink?’ or ‘What will we wear for
clothing?’ For the Gentiles eagerly seek all these things;
for your heavenly Father knows that you need all these
things. But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness,
and all these things will be added to you” [7]. I therefore have
nothing to worry about; these and other verses like these tell
me that I am entirely in God’s hands, that He has a plan for
me, and that everything will work out in the end. I do not need
to chase after money acquired through unethical means. That
will only lead to more difficulty. I therefore have my answer:
I will absolutely not accept the offer from this person.
RESULTS
Though this situation may never occur, it is certainly
possible that something like it may happen someday. It
demonstrates a significant truth that I had perhaps not
considered before: software engineers are just as likely to face
difficult ethical situations and held to strict ethical standards
as well. There is a power that comes with writing code – code
that has the potential to affect millions of lives. Software
developers have a responsibility to be ethically conscious as
well, something that may often be overlooked [8]. I know that
for myself, I will adhere to a strict set of ethics, using the Bible
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as my standard and following the Codes written by
professional organizations such as the NSPE or IEEE.
Personally, I shall never compromise. The situation may not
be black and white, but there is always a right decision.
Robert Zamboky
REFERENCES
[1] A.V. Pandhare, Prof. Ms. V. M. Deshmukh. (2013, April).
“Quantum Computer: An Overview.” International Journal
of Computer Science and Applications. (Online Article).
http://www.researchpublications.org/IJCSA/NCAICN13/241.pdf. pp. 376-379
[2] (2002) J. Weckert. “Lilliputian Computer Ethics.”
Metaphilosophy. (Online Article). http://content.ebscohost.
com.pitt.idm.oclc.org/ContentServer.asp?T=P&P=AN&K=6
719245&S=R&D=aph&EbscoContent=dGJyMNHX8kSeqL
M4zdnyOLCmr0yep7ZSs6e4Ta%2BWxWXS&ContentCust
omer=dGJyMO7f8oy549%2BB7LHfi%2B4A. pp 366-375.
[3] A. Ekert, R. Renner. (2014, March 26) “The ultimate
physical limits of privacy.” Nature. (Online Article).
http://www.nature.com/nature/journal/v507/n7493/full/natur
e13132.html. pp 443-447.
[4] H. Johnston. (2014, June 20). “Is D-Wave’s quantum
computer actually a quantum computer?” Physics World.
(Online Article). http://physicsworld.com/cws/article/news/
2014/jun/20/is-d-wave-quantum-computer-actually-aquantum-computer
[5] (2007, July) “NPSE Code of Ethics for Engineers.”
National Society of Professional Engineers. (Online Article).
http://www.nspe.org/resources/ethics/code-ethics
[6] (2014). “Software Engineering Code of Ethics and
Professional Practice.” IEEE Computer Society. (Online
Article). http://www.computer.org/portal/web/getcertified/
resources/code_of_ethics
[7] NASB Quick Study Bible: Making Bible Study Easy.
Thomas Nelson, Inc: 2006. Print.
[8] (2014, March) A. Narayanan, S. Vallor. “Why Software
Engineering Courses Should Include Ethics Coverage.”
Communications of the ACM. (Online Article).
http://content.ebscohost.com.pitt.idm.oclc.org/ContentServer
.asp?T=P&P=AN&K=94803392&S=R&D=bth&EbscoCont
ent=dGJyMNHX8kSeqLM4zdnyOLCmr0yeqLFSrq%2B4Sr
CWxWXS&ContentCustomer=dGJyMO7f8oy549%2BB7L
Hfi%2B4A. pp 23-25.
ADDITIONAL SOURCES
“Cases and Scenarios.” Online Ethics Center for Engineering
and Science. (Online Article). http://www.onlineethics.org/
Resources/Cases.aspx
(2014) “ethics.” Dictionary.com. (Online Article).
http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/ethics?s=ts
“Ethics Case Studies.” webGuru: Guide for Undergraduate
Research. (Online Article). http://www.webguru.neu.edu/
professionalism/research-integrity/ethics-case-studies
“Ethics Cases.” Texas Tech University. (Online Article).
http://www.depts.ttu.edu/murdoughcenter/products/cases.ph
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Thank you very much to my writing instructor, Amanda
Brant, who helped me with some of the details of this
assignment. Also, much thanks to Libby Ferda who came in
to talk about how to write this paper.