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Mathematics & Computer Science

ACM Ethical Standards

The Association of Computing Machinery has a section called ``The ACM Code of Professional Conduct'' in its bylaws. Since it is a formal statement of association expectations, its length and its style make for difficult reading. Recently, an ACM subcommittee on Career Information published a helpful booklet* designed specifically for the undergraduate in computer science. The following paraphrase of the official code of conduct can be found on pages 127-129. Please thoughtfully consider your own reaction to these ideas. Perhaps you might write your own ethical code, based on your reflection of these ideas and those in scripture.

* The No-Nonsense Guide To Computing Careers, ACM Order Number 311920, ACM, 1515 Broadway, NY 10036

Act With Integrity

  • Don't bluff on technical issues:
    1. If you aren't competent to offer an opinion on something, don't.
    2. If you aren't sure about something, say so.
  • If you are making a partisan statement, say so.
  • Act faithfully on behalf of your employers or clients.
  • Don't misrepresent your credentials.
  • Be honest about the system on which you are working:
    1. Don't lie about the capabilities of a system.
    2. Don't exaggerate delivery schedules.
  • Tell a potential client or employer about any personal or equipment situations which may impact the final product.
  • Reveal potential conflicts of interest.
  • Don't use confidential information (especially about clients or employers) without first obtaining their permission.

Increase Competence

  • Work to extend knowledge. Oppose false or deceptive statements.
  • Don't use your professional credentials to misrepresent your competence.
  • Undertake only those assignments for which you are qualified.
  • Strive to design and develop systems that do what they are supposed to do and meet the customer's needs.
  • Keep learning and improving in your field of expertise.
  • Help others improve their skills and advance their careers.

Accept Responsibility

  • Only accept assignments you can reasonably expect to complete, and do the work professionally.
  • Don't neglect an assignment.
  • Honestly tell your employer or client how things are progressing.
  • Don't run away from your mistakes: don't attempt to exonerate yourself from liability or limit your liability for things you brought on yourself.
  • If your professional judgement is overruled, tell your employer or client what the consequences might be.

Act Professionally

  • Don't misrepresent your own authority.
  • Conduct your activities on a high plane.
  • Don't knowingly misrepresent the policies or views of others.
  • Don't intentionally injure anyone's professional reputation.
  • Give credit to the people that deserve it.

Advance Human Welfare

  • Be concerned about the following issues as you are working.
    1. Public Health
    2. Public Privacy
      1. Minimize the data collected
      2. Limit authorized access to that data
      3. Provide proper security for the data
      4. Determine the required retention for the data
      5. Ensure proper disposal of the data
    3. General welfare of public
  • If you see something that could harm people, express your opinion to your employer or client.