Re:Should computer science researchers disclose negative soc...
by dj-wonk on Friday August 03, 2018 @11:17PM
(#17685188)
The goal of this proposal seems worthwhile but the implementation leaves a lot to be desired.
Humanity benefits when the broader impacts of technology are factored in. Who does this, with what influence, is arguably one of largest themes in human history. This particular proposal is just one of many options.
I don't find this article particularly compelling. Having a requirement for a social-impact section is a blunt instrument; it might become just a pro-forma exercise.
I think I would be more interested in encouraging (not requiring) journals with strong ethical foundations let authors opt-in to discuss social impacts. If they do, I would expect these social impacts to be vetted by social scientists, philosophers, ethicists, and so on -- areas where computer scientists often have large blind spots.
Humanity benefits when the broader impacts of technology are factored in. Who does this, with what influence, is arguably one of largest themes in human history. This particular proposal is just one of many options.
I don't find this article particularly compelling. Having a requirement for a social-impact section is a blunt instrument; it might become just a pro-forma exercise.
I think I would be more interested in encouraging (not requiring) journals with strong ethical foundations let authors opt-in to discuss social impacts. If they do, I would expect these social impacts to be vetted by social scientists, philosophers, ethicists, and so on -- areas where computer scientists often have large blind spots.