Technology simplifies the way humans do things; however, it can lead to ethical and environmental issues (Tavani, 2012). The more a particular theology is widely integrated into the marketplace, the more ethical challenges it presents. The ethical standards in the society need to evolve and grow in line with the emerging technologies. New technological advances and devices may make the day-to-day business operations more efficient, but they also present ethical challenges that must be considered and mitigated. Recent media materials suggest that individuals are always aware of some of the new technologies such as cloning, microwave repeater stations, genetic engineering, and food irradiation (Edelbach, 2013).
Developing New Technology
Environmental Concerns
When developing new technology, its impact on the environment should be considered (Jasanoff, 2016). Ideally, a balance between technological advancement and environment management and sustainability should be reached. For example, when developing a new pesticide, it is important to consider its potential impact on the entire ecosystem, both in the short-term and in the long run.
Intellectual Property Rights
The commercialization of new technologies and ideas has led to the growth of innovators who are keen on protecting their innovative concepts so that they can get financial benefits. In most instances, intellectual property rights are valued in universities and research institutions. Developers of new technology should ensure that they are not infringing on their entities’ intellectual property rights by stealing their ideas.
Safety and Health Concerns
When developing a new technology, safety and health concerns need to be considered. Ideal technologies do not have negative effects on the environment. They often contribute to the overall good and betterment of the society (Edelbach, 2013). Responsible development of new technology encompasses the process of considering the application and examining potential safety and health implications. For example, concerns were raised about the safety of GMOs (Genetically Modified Organisms) and nuclear technology when they were developed.
Introducing Of New Technologies to the Marketplace
Privacy Concerns
Data collection versus privacy is an ethical dilemma related to the massive data amounts that individuals give to commercial entities through social media platforms or the Internet. It is important to consider the diverse details that commercial entities should collect and retain from individuals (Sandler, 2013). For example, advancements in the field of information technology may lead to the creation of a central governmental database that contains information on all Americans, which helps the government be more efficient in service delivery. Nevertheless, such technology will lead to increased vulnerabilities, especially when it comes to individual privacy.
Impact on the Environment
The growing aspirations and human needs create a situation whereby companies and individuals may forget that the basic elements that are essential for survival are supported by nature. For example, when introducing a new technology to the marketplace, one should consider whether it will result in more pollution, increase global warming, reduce vegetation cover and exacerbate the problem of climate change (Tavani, 2012). Green energy technology is sustainable, and it yields positive results in the society. The widespread use of certain technologies can lead to environmental degradation.
The identification of potential public concerns before introducing a new product in the marketplace is one of the ethical issues to address. Such considerations help in avoiding unnecessary delays in introducing useful technologies. The public does not have a lot of faith in scientists’ judgment on what is good for society while in some cases, scientists are openly distrusted. The ethical questions that people ask are related to how a revolutionary technology is likely to affect individual and their families as well as its future implications. The other concerns include effects on animals, the environment, and businesses. While governments are keen on ensuring that their research investments yield usable outcomes, the public is feeling disenfranchised from bureaucratic decision-making processes.
References
Edelbach, R. (2013). Society, ethics, and technology. New Jersey: Pearson Press.
Jasanoff, S. (2016). The Ethics of Invention: Technology and the human future. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
Sandler, R. (2013). Ethics and emerging technologies. New York: Prentice Hall Press.
Tavani, T. (2012). Ethics and technology: Controversies, questions, and strategies for ethical computing. Stanford: Stanford University Press.
