Special Topics in Information Science: Information Ethics

The field of information ethics is dedicated to exploring the ethical concerns and implications for people and societies in a world where information and information technologies are embedded in our everyday lives in potentially beneficial and potentially harmful ways. With origins in library science, the field has expanded to reach a range of disciplines and domains, including journalism and media, publishing, data science, computer science, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, academic research, and education, just to name a few. In this course, we will explore information ethics from both theoretical and practical perspectives. The class will learn about foundational concepts and principles, historical developments, various ethical frameworks and philosophies, and the relevance of these to information professionals and to society more broadly. Students will apply their knowledge and critical thinking to examining issues, case studies, and ethical dilemmas relevant to their academic and professional areas of interest.