CS 4863 CSP
Applying Different Ethical Frameworks to a Dilemma

Due:	September 23rd
Format:	Approximately 4 pages, 12 pt font, double spaced
Grading criteria:	Completeness Writing Insight into each ethical theory Individual ethical analysis

Consider this ethical dilemma:

You have been offered a lucrative coding job writing software for a chain of coffee shops, Java Du Jour (JDJ). JDJ offers free wifi to their customers. When you join the wifi, the fine print on the "click to accept" screen says by using the free wifi, you agree to accept special offers from JDJ.

JDJ has asked you to write code that scans their wifi traffic for other email addresses (like people their customers are emailing), generates a probability score as to whether they live near by based on their IP address and anything else you can see in the web traffic. If they live in the area, add their email to a list to receive a coupon for a free small coffee.

Do you accept the job?

1. What would an act-utilitarian analysis suggest you do? Why?
2. What would a rule-utilitarian analysis suggest you do? Why?
3. What would a deontological analysis suggest you do? Why? Which formulation of the categorical imperative is easier to use in this situation and why?
4. What would social contract theory suggest you do? Why?
5. What would an analysis from virtue ethics suggest you do? Why?
6. Combine these different perspectives and provide a well-reasoned argument for a course of action.
7. Comment on noteworthy strengths and weaknesses of the different theories that came up in your analysis. Pick one noteworthy strength of one theory, and one weakness of a theory, and discuss.

Answer each question separately. In each answer, show us that you understand that ethical theory.