What Does it Mean to Embed Ethics in Data Science? An Integrative Approach Based on Microethics and Virtues

Author: Louise Bezuidenhout, Emanuele Ratti

Publisher: AI & Society

Publication Year: 2021

Summary: The following article addresses the rise of ethical concerns in data science and the issues of applying ethical approaches in day-to-day activities. Bezuidenhout and Ratti propose a ‘microethics’ model to incorporate ethical teachings in digital activities to foster a culture of moral virtues. The article reinforces the idea of repetitive actions for virtue ethics. There is a difference between individuals who understand ethical issue compared to those who embody a core set of ethical values in their daily life. By exposing people to various ethical issues and communicating problems effectively, these individuals can transition from understanding to embodying. Finally, the authors recommend a data science training program that teaches the Open Science, Responisble Conduct of Research and Responsible Digital Citizenship curriculum.