Cyber-Ethics, Techno-Ethics and Digital Media
The digital media space is not immune from rapid advances in technology and changes spawned across society. The evolution of technology has occasioned notable ethical considerations that users should take into cognisance. This results in the rise of fields such as techno-ethics and cyber-ethics, which address the moral implications of digital technologies and media (Tavani, 2012).
Techno-ethics is a field that delves into the ethical implications of technology in society, focusing on the relationship between technology and human values. It explores the broader impact of technological advancements on human life, including issues related to privacy, security, the environment, as well as the moral responsibilities of those who create and use technology (Luppicini & Adell, 2008). Techno-ethics is concerned with the ethical considerations of all technological developments, encompassing both digital and non-digital technologies. Cyber-ethics, on the other hand, is a subset of techno-ethics that specifically addresses ethical issues related to the use of information and communication technologies, especially within cyberspace. It focuses on the ethical behaviour of individuals and organisations in online environments, including issues such as cyberbullying, hacking, data privacy, and intellectual property rights (Spinello, 2014). Cyber-ethics is concerned primarily with digital interactions and the ethical use of internet technologies. Hairollizam, Masrom, and Hashim, (2020) define cyber-ethics as a branch of ethics that dives into the ethical dilemmas and challenges arising from the use of information technology and cyberspace. According to Tavani (2013), cyber-ethics involves the "identification and analysis of the ethical responsibilities of computer professionals and users of computer technology and the ethical implications of the use of that technology.
Digital media refers to any content that is created, stored, distributed, and accessed in digital formats through electronic devices. This encompasses a wide range of formats and platforms, including text, audio, video, and graphics, which are accessible via computers, smartphones, tablets, and other digital devices. Digital media allows for interactive and real-time communication, enabling users to engage with content in dynamic ways (Jelagat, 2022).
The proposed book is important because the study of techno-ethics, cyber-ethics and digital media is increasingly necessary in today’s technologically-driven realities. As digital technologies continue to penetrate every aspect of society and realities, they buttress the need for an understanding of the ethical implications of these advancements for ensuring responsible use and fostering a more just and equitable society. As new technologically-driven media platforms and production techniques, such as virtual production, the use of artificial intelligence, and immersive technologies, emerge, the need to develop ethically responsible approaches to such technologies becomes even more crucial. Studying these fields equips individuals and organisations with knowledge to develop a heightened ethical awareness and improve their decision-making processes. Understanding the subject matter enables professionals to identify potential ethical dilemmas and navigate complex situations with a clear moral framework. This is especially critical where ethical considerations directly impact societal well-being. In an era where personal data is extensively collected, stored, and analysed, the importance of privacy and data security cannot be overstated. By studying cyber-ethics, individuals and organisations can better appreciate the ethical implications of data handling practices and strive to protect personal information against misuse and breaches. In addition, such an understanding can inform the development of best practice guidance for the use of such technologies across a range of sectors. Digital media and technology have a profound impact on societal structures, communication, cultural norms, and individual behaviours. Understanding the ethical implications of these technologies helps in mitigating negative effects such as misinformation, digital addiction, and social polarisation (Boyd & Ellison, 2007).
Furthermore, it encourages the development of technologies that promote social good, inclusivity, and equality (Brey, 2007). The proposed book welcomes chapters on the study of cyber-ethics and techno-ethics that inform the development of robust regulatory frameworks and policies. Policymakers rely on ethical analyses to draft laws that balance innovation with public interest, ensuring that technological advancements do not compromise ethical standards (Van den Hoven et al., 2012). This is particularly relevant in areas such as artificial intelligence and digital media, where rapid advancements often outpace existing regulations. Professionals in technology and media industries bear significant responsibility for the ethical implications of their work. Studying cyber-ethics and techno-ethics equips them with the knowledge to uphold high ethical standards and remain accountable for their actions (Moor, 2005). This fosters a culture of integrity and trust within organisations and among the public.
Potential topics may include:
Techno-Ethics in Emerging Technologies
Ethical Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Privacy and Data Security
Impact of Digital Media on Privacy
Intellectual Property and Digital Rights
Ethics of Surveillance Technologies
Cyber-Ethics in Professional Conduct
Ethical Implications of Digital Marketing
Digital Addiction and Its ethical implications
Techno-Ethics in education
Digital Media and Social Change
Regulatory Frameworks for Digital Media
Ethical use of immersive technologies and spatial computing
Fake news and ethics
Creative production, AI and ethics.
Timeline
Abstracts due: 30 November 2024
Acceptance notification: 28 February 2025
Completed first drafts due: 30 April 2025
Reviewer comments returned: 31 May 2025
Revised papers due: 31 August 2025.
How to submit
Abstracts due: 30 November 2024
Please ensure that the following information is present in your abstract:
The theoretical foundation of your study (for example: business studies, film studies, cultural studies, fan studies, media studies, psychology, sociology, philosophy etc).
Your methodology and means of data collecting and analysis.
The unique contribution that your chapter will bring to the study of cyber-ethics and techno-ethics.
Abstracts need not be more than 400 words in length, and must include four key references. Please include a 50-word biography (including affiliation if applicable). Please send your abstract in Word format so that it can be more easily copied into the book proposal should your abstract be accepted.
Send abstracts and expressions of interest to: cyberethicsanddigitalmedia@gmail.com
cyberethicsanddigitalmedia@gmail.com
Dr Adelina Mbinjama