PHIL 150NComputing and Society

3 credits · Philosophy · Penn State

In this course, students will explore the ways in which computers and information technology shape our lives and society. The course includes a concise introduction to ethics, computing history, and the evolution of the Internet. Students will acquire introductory knowledge in numerous areas where computers and information technology leave a significant impact on society, including privacy, security, freedom of speech, social media, intellectual property, digital citizenship, ethical dilemmas in technology, the environment, and sustainable development. Through the analysis of case studies and real-life scenarios, students will be exposed to ongoing debates surrounding the social, ethical, legal, and policy aspects of computing. This exposure aims to cultivate a critical understanding of how computers influence our society, fostering digital literacy and promoting responsible technology use.