Data Ethics

3 Credits · Level: Undergraduate

We willingly share data about ourselves all the time---from apps we use for purchases to Ubers we take. Consider the amount of data you share intentionally in the course of one day. What happens to all that data? We are coming to understand that it paints a picture of individuals, communities and our world that is permanent, accessible, and can be shared, sold, manipulated, and combined for purposes far beyond the intentions behind our original “disclosures.” Do we care; should we? We also unwillingly share data every day. What happens to the record of that Uber ride you took? Who is aware of your google search history? Your purchases? Your income from your part time job? Your recent arrest on a minor charge? What should governments, parents, employers, be able to learn about you? Does Georgetown read your emails? Should they? In this course, we will explore the rapidly changing landscape of Data Ethics. This class will take place in the KIE Ethics Lab and will incorporate nontraditional, experiential assignments in addition to traditional modes of assessment.