In the early years of the 21st century, the Internet has penetrated most corners of the world, enabling many people to obtain information and to sell their products in a ‘global’ market. Although some people talk about ‘global communities’ and even ‘global culture’, in reality there are many unique cultures and standards in different parts of the world.
At the same time, some ‘Western’ or ‘developed country’ organisations and governments try to impose their values and ‘correct’ behaviours on other, less developed countries. An example relates to Intellectual Property Rights (IPR), which it has been suggested should apply universally to all people in all countries.
A new feature of this ethical dichotomy is the apparent acceptance by many governments of the need for rigorously enforced IPR. Many governments around the world are urging their citizens both to avoid buying IPR-violating materials/products, and to promote creativity by respecting the copyrights of others.
Discuss the issues associated with IPR as it is applied in your country, paying special attention to the rights and duties of software developers (local and international) and users. Try to develop ethical principles that will help to protect the rights and enforce the duties of both software users and software developers.
